LEAD EXPOSURE

ANTICIPATORY GUIDANCE AS REQUIRED BY NYS LAW TO MINIMIZE CHILDREN’S EXPOSURE TO LEAD

Children between 9 months and 59 months of age are at risk of lead exposure due to normal hand to mouth toddler behavior. Rapid growth and development at these ages also makes them more vulnerable to lead’s toxic effects.

Minimizing exposure to lead is the best way to prevent developmental and cognitive deficits associated with lead poisoning. Following the below mentioned pointers will help you minimize the exposure to lead.

• Keep your children away from peeling paint and home repairs that disturb lead paint;
• Report peeling paint to your landlord. If your landlord does not make repairs, call 311;
• Frequently wash toys, hands, pacifiers, bottles, and other items your child puts in his or her mouth;
• Clean floors, windowsills, and dusty places often with wet mops and wet cloths;
• Avoid using health remedies and eye cosmetics (such as kohl, kajal, surma) from other countries. Some of these products have been found to contain high levels of lead;
• Use caution when using candies, spices, snack foods, and children’s toys and jewelry made in other countries. These items may contain lead;
• Use only cold tap water for making baby formula, drinking and cooking. Let the water run for a few minutes before use;
• Keep your child away from the work clothes and tools of household members who do construction work or other work and hobbies that may expose them to lead. Wash work clothes separately from other laundry. Remove shoes and work clothes before entering your home;
• Use safe work methods when doing home repair that disturbs paint. For more information on lead-safe work methods, call 311.