Lead is a natural element found in our environment that was once used in a variety of products found both inside and outside of our homes, including paint, pipes and plumbing materials, ceramics and cosmetics.
When exposed to lead, it can build up in the body and result in elevated levels of lead in the blood, commonly called lead poisoning.
There is no safe level of lead in the human body. Children under the age of 6 years old are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning because their growing bodies absorb more lead than adults, and their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead. Babies and young children can also be more highly exposed to lead because they often put their hands and other objects that have lead from dust or soil into their mouths.
Pregnant women should be aware of lead hazards in order to prevent exposure to a developing baby.
The most important way to prevent childhood lead poisoning is to keep children from coming into contact with lead hazards by controlling or removing these hazards from their environment.
To help keep your children lead safe, think: Safe Paint. Safe Water. Safe Kids.