• Because their organs are growing and developing, infants and
  toddlers are most susceptible to the toxic effects of lead.
  Lead can interfere with a child’s development and damage
  the kidneys and nervous system.
• Children under the age of six are at risk of ingesting lead because they like to explore and put things in their mouths.
• Lead can be absorbed through ingestion or inhalation.
• The most common source of lead poisoning in children is lead-based paint. Children often become poisoned by eating paint that has peeled or chipped off walls, crib railings and window sills, or by putting things in their mouths that have been contaminated with lead dust.
• Drinking water can become contaminated with lead from lead piping and lead solder.
• Dust in homes, yards and playgrounds can become contaminated with lead from lead-based paint as well as industries that use lead.
• Lead glassware and imported pottery are other household sources of lead.
• Low levels of calcium and iron in the body can increase the absorption of lead.

Prevention

• Encourage regular hand-washing, especially before meals and after outdoor play.
• Wash children’s toys every day.
• Damp dust and wet mop floors, window sills and counter tops. This will reduce the spread of dust.
• Never use imported pottery or lead glassware to store food or beverages. Lead can be leeched into the food or fluid and ingested.
• Keep children away from home remodeling and renovation activities, and seek the advice of a professional contractor if you currently have lead-based paint in your home.
• Provide a well-balanced diet that is high in iron and calcium
  and encourage healthy snacks between meals.
• Call the Poison Center if you have any questions.