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What Parents Can Do to Prevent Childhood Lead Poisoning

Have Your Child Tested for Lead

The City of Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) has updated its lead testing recommendations to help keep your children safe from lead exposure and other hazards commonly found in Milwaukee's older homes.

MHD recommends having your child tested at 12, 18, and 24 months, then once a year at ages 3, 4, and 5. 

For more information or to have your child tested for lead, contact your healthcare provider to schedule testing. Families can also take the steps below to reduce the risk of lead poisoning in their homes.

Keep Your Home Lead Safe

Take these steps to reduce lead dust in your home.

Use wet cleaning methods. For example, clean the inside of your windows with a damp cloth or wipe. Mopping hard surface floors with a mop, such as a Swiffer or a wet cloth, can also effectively remove dust.

If you notice chipping, peeling, or flaking paint, temporarily cover these areas with duct tape.

For carpeted areas during home renovations, utilize a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum, as it is required to safely remove lead dust.

For more information on free HEPA vacuum rentals, contact the Milwaukee Health Department at 414-286-2465.

Lead and Nutrition

A healthy diet can help get lead out of the body.

Eating foods high in calcium, iron, and vitamin C may help reduce your child's blood lead level (BLL). Find more resources on lead and nutrition below:

Support Your Child's Growth

Choose safe and educational toys.

When selecting toys for your child, it is important to choose age-appropriate options that are safe and promote active play.

Look for toys that are non-toxic, free of choking hazards, easy to clean, and without sharp edges.

Choose versatile toys, like balls, that can be used for rolling, tossing, and chasing.

Opt for toys that spark curiosity and are easy to use, helping to foster your child's sense of independence.

Learn About Potential Sources of Lead

chipping paint on a house

If you live in a home built before 1978, it likely contains lead paint. If you are not sure when your home was built, click here to look up your address. 

Lead can also be present in other sources, such as soil, water, and household items. To learn more about common sources of lead exposure, visit: