August 13, 2012

Lead in the Home


               
 You might think you know all there is to know about lead and refuse to let your child eat those paint chips they found on the floor. But lead paint chips are just the beginning of the lead dangers that are in and around your home.

                Since we started out talking about the paint, let’s expand a little. Yes, lead paint chips are bad. If your house was built after 1978, you probably will not encounter lead in your paint. Everyone else can assume there is at least a little lead in your home. Lead dust can get on anything and everything when stirred up, like walking across your porch and into your home or opening a window. You need to make sure if you have carpet that you vacuum frequently with a vacuum using a HEPA filter. If you have smooth floors, wet mop them once a week. Wipe your children’s toys and furniture with wet cloths. If you have blinds, check their manufacturing. Many companies whose manufacturing outlets are in foreign countries use lead in their materials.
                Another danger with regards to lead is lead piping, lead soldering, and copper piping used in homes. If your home was built before 1986, your home will contain some combination of these things. Flushing your faucet or using a water filtration system can help. Get your water tested if you suspect you have lead somewhere in your piping. The EPA can provide kits or you can look in your area for testing facilities.
                Outside of your home, you need to be careful of lead in your soil. This can happen especially in places near gutters and awnings. Always cover soil, never leave it exposed. Again, have your soil tested to see your levels.
                So what does this all mean? You have to live in a bubble or spend thousands of dollars on landscaping and home repairs? No. You have to be vigilant of signs your child might have lead poisoning. These can include sluggishness, lack of appetite, or stomach pain. Ask your doctor to test your child after nine months of age. It’s a simple finger prick test that is covered by insurance in most cases. Keep your home clean and be careful when remodeling or landscaping.
                If you encounter lead issues, please contact us at 716-823-3630.