What should you know?

• Look for lead paint (especially around windows, floors and doors) that is chipping, peeling, flaking, that may chip. Knowing how to identify lead paint in your home is crucial.
• Scraping, burning, sanding or using a heat gun to remove lead paint creates dust which allows lead fumes into the air.

What can
you do?

• Use paper towels, soap and water to wipe surfaces where paint is chipping weekly.
• Wash dust and flakes off of hands, toys, bottles, clothes, windows, pacifiers and floors with soap and water. Hand sanitizer does not remove lead.
• Use a sealant to create a barrier against chipping paint flakes.
• Leave your shoes at the door to keep lead outside of your home.
• See a doctor if you’re worried about lead exposure.

What should you NOT do?

• DO NOT dry scrape, power sand, burn or use a heat gun to remove lead paint.
• DO NOT dry sweep or vacuum paint chips.

Additional resources:

• Get tested for lead exposure: Contact your doctor, local WIC Clinic or your city’s Health Department.
• Well Fed Means Less Lead! See the Get Well Fed page for tips on protecting your family through the use of healthy foods.