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Public Safety
Lead Poisoning Prevention FAQs
What is lead poisoning?
It’s a condition caused by swallowing or inhaling lead. Even small amounts of lead can be harmful especially to small children.
Why is it important to know about lead poisoning?
It is very common. Older homes and buildings often still have lead based paint. Lead can harm any child regardless of where that child lives – rural, suburban or city.
How does lead affect children?
At lower blood levels lead may damage the nervous system, interfere with growth, harming, lower I.Q. scores, cause behavior problems and make learning difficult. At high blood levels it is toxic possibly leading to coma, convulsions and or death.
What are some symptoms of lead poisoning?
Often the signs are not easily seen. There may be stomachache, headache, fatigue or irritability.
What are some sources of lead in a child’s environment?
- Painted surfaces, paint dust, chipping and peeling paint. Homes built before 1979 are more apt to have lead paint inside or outside. Lead was taken out of most paint by 1978. Old toys and furniture may also have lead paint.
- Soil – Areas outside where chips and dust from paint has fallen, and lead-based insecticides.
- Water - In some places old plumbing may have lead pipes or lead solder. Check your plumbing. Water coming from the Lancaster water system is free of lead.
- Other sources of lead – poorly glazed pottery, fishing weights, antique pewter and some hobby items such as stained glass, furniture refinishing.
How do I find out if my child has been exposed to lead?
Get your child screened – the younger the better!! Call us at 1-800-374-7114 and we will arrange to have a Registered Nurse test your child - free of charge. You can also ask your doctor to have your child tested.
What is the test like?
It is a quick blood test.
If the test is positive, what can I do??
With the guidance of your health care professional, the Health Unit can assist you in getting your child free from lead. Steps you can take include:
- Regular medical attention
- Dietary changes for proper nutrition
- Safe removal of lead hazards in your home?
- Proper cleaning techniques in the home
What services does the City offer?
In conjunction with Pinnacle Health, the City of Lancaster offers free lead screenings for lead blood levels, free education about nutrition to help lower lead blood levels and free instruction on paint removal and lead hazard removal.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Health Division at:
Content Last Modified on 9/30/2010 2:08:11 PM
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