NORWICH — Although lead-based paint was banned in 1978, lead can still be found lurking in older homes and the environment.

Some less-discussed environmental lead exposures can come from soil and other outdoor materials. Warm weather can increase the risk of lead exposure as windows are opened more often, children spend more time outdoors, vegetable gardens are planted and harvested, outdoor fires are used and home improvement projects are underway.

Lead dust is a serious concern, especially for young children. Breathing in lead dust can be harmful because their brains are still developing. Lead exposure can affect a child’s development, intelligence, growth and behavior.

Safely cleaning surfaces is important in preventing lead poisoning. Wet cleaning and using a HEPA vacuum can help reduce lead dust. Use disinfecting wipes or wet mops, such as Swiffer, instead of dry sweeping to prevent dust from becoming airborne.

Windows can be a significant source of lead dust, especially in older homes. Keep windows closed if the paint is deteriorating, and regularly wet-clean windowsills while monitoring them for peeling or deteriorating lead-based paint. Consider using a lead encapsulant to create a protective barrier over intact lead-based paint.

Avoid placing fans or air-conditioning units in windows with deteriorating lead-based paint, as they can spread lead dust and increase exposure.

Children playing outside should avoid playing in bare soil and near old painted porches, fences or siding, where lead exposure may be more likely. Warm weather also means more foot traffic between indoors and outdoors. Remember that toddlers may be crawling or learning to walk, so their hands and bodies are in contact with floors where lead-contaminated dust and soil can accumulate.

Ways to Stay Safe from Lead:

1. Cover bare soil with ground cover, such as mulch, or plant grass.

2. Use raised garden beds with clean topsoil. If you live in an older home, plant gardens away from the house’s drip line.

3. Remove shoes before entering the home and place them on a mat.

4. Have children wash their hands after outdoor play and before meals and naps.

5. Avoid using reclaimed materials in fire pits, especially old painted wood.

6. Avoid using or drinking from old outdoor hoses and spigots.

7. Have your soil tested by a certified laboratory.

8. Follow EPA guidelines when renovating an older home or hire a lead-certified contractor.

Additional Resources:

epa.gov/lead

health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/lead_rental_registry/lead_safe_ny.htm

chenangocountyny.gov/463/Lead-Prevention

health.ny.gov/environmental/lead/

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at 607-337-1660.

— Information from the Chenango County Health Department