LEAD POISONING Prevention

Here are some tips for parents to protect their children from lead poisoning:
Have children age 1 through 6 tested for lead poisoning.
Keep children away from chipping, peeling and flaking paint.
Wash children's hands often, especially before they eat, after they play and before bedtime.
Wash toys and other objects that children put in their mouths.
Wet wash and completely dry floors, furniture, woodwork, windowsills and window troughs to remove lead dust.
Leave outdoor shoes at the door to keep lead dust and dirt out of the house.
Make sure children eat properly. A good diet rich in calcium, vitamin C and iron can decrease the amount of lead absorbed.
Do not let your child eat snow or icicles.
If you are exposed to lead at work, shower and change clothes before coming home; and wash work clothes separately.
If you are concerned that there may be lead in your home, call the Youngstown City Health Department at (330) 743-3333 or the Mahoning County Health Department at (330) 270-2855.
Source: Mahoning County Health Department