Action Steps to Reduce Lead Exposure

• In older homes that may have been painted with lead-based paint (often built before 1978); ensure household members avoid peeling paint and paint dust in window sills. Homes built before 1950 pose the greatest hazard to children because they are more likely to contain lead-based paint. Since lead-based paint wasn’t banned until 1978, 83% to 86% of these homes have lead-based paint. 47% of Fairfax County homes were built before 1978 and are at risk of having lead based paint.

• Any peeling paint should be removed and the paint chips swept away. Removal of lead paint is hazardous and should be done by a qualified professional. Children should not be present when scraping or cleaning up paint chips.

• Dust should be kept to a minimum by damp mopping and using a wet cloth to clean walls, window sills, and other surfaces.

• Wash your hands regularly, particularly before meals and after playing outside.

• Do not store food in open cans, particularly if the cans are imported.

• Avoid eating from, cooking with or storing food in pottery and ceramic dinnerware that is intended for decorative use or the lead content is unknown.

• Eat foods rich in calcium and iron to prevent lead absorption into the body.

• Anyone whose homes were built prior to 1986, or who may be particularly concerned about lead in their household plumbing, should let cold water run from the faucet for 60-90 seconds prior to using water for drinking or cooking, keeping in mind that boiling water does not reduce lead in water.

• More tips for preventing childhood lead poisoning are included in the pamphlet entitled “Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home.” Which may be downloaded from the EPA site (PDF)or obtained by calling 1-800-424-LEAD.