- The ARC - California Edition -

What Can We Do About Lead?

HOUSEKEEPING:
· Keep children away from peeling or chipping paint.
· Wet mop and wet wipe hard surfaces, using dishwasher soap.
· Do not vacuum hard surfaces because this activity is believed to scatter dust.
· Wash children’s hands and faces before they eat.
· Wash toys and pacifiers frequently.

NUTRITION:
· Make sure children eat regular nutritious meals, since more lead is absorbed on an empty stomach.
· Make sure children’s diets contain plenty of iron and calcium.
· Examples of foods high in iron are liver, fortified cereal, cooked beans, spinach, nd raisins.
· Examples of foods high in calcium are milk, yogurt, cheese, and cooked greens.

SOIL:
· If soil around the home is likely to be lead-contaminated, plant grass or other ground cover.
· If lead-based paint is the source of soil contamination, most lead will be near painted surfaces such as exterior walls. In such cases, plant bushes next to the house to keep children away.
· If the soil is contaminated with lead, provide a sandbox with a solid bottom and top cover, and clean sand for children to play and dig in.

WATER:
· Check with your water company about lead content and lead reducing procedures.

FOOD:
· Do not store food in open cans.
· Do not store or serve food in pottery.
· Do not store food or beverages in lead crystal or china.