Simple Steps to Protect Your Family from Lead Hazards

If you think your home has lead-based paint:

• Don’t try to remove lead-based paint yourself.

• Always keep painted surfaces in good condition to minimize deterioration.

• Get your home checked for lead hazards. Find a certified inspector or risk assessor.

• Talk to your landlord about fixing surfaces with peeling or chipping paint.

• Regularly clean floors, window sills, and other surfaces.

• Take precautions to avoid exposure to lead dust when remodeling.

• When renovating, repairing, or painting, hire only EPA- or state-approved Lead-Safe certified renovation firms.

• Before buying, renting, or renovating your home, have it checked for lead-based paint.

• Consult your health care provider about testing your children for lead. Your pediatrician can check for lead with a simple blood test.

• Wash children’s hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often.

• Make sure children eat healthy, low-fat foods high in iron, calcium, and vitamin C.

• Remove shoes or wipe soil of shoes before entering your house.