Lead Paint / Lead Poisoning
Lead paint is the major source of lead poisoning in the United States. Peeling or chipped lead paint poses the greatest risk. However, even intact lead paint can create fine lead dust. Millions of homes have lead paint. The paint may be found on window sills, stairways, railings, banisters, woodwork, doorframes, molding, porches, and fences.
Lead Poisoning is the number one environmental health threat to children under the age of 6. It is entirely avoidable. It is a disease caused by swallowing or breathing lead. Even small amounts of chipped lead paint or lead dust can be dangerous to children. Children face great risks because their bodies absorb lead more easily than adults do.
Peeling paint and dust caused by lead paint chips are either inhaled by children or eaten by children. Parents know that no matter how hard you try, it is impossible to keep an eye on toddlers every minute. Children also suck on their hands or toys that have lead dust on them. Some toddlers even eat paint chips or chew on lead painted windowsills and stair rails because the paint chips are sweet.
Have Your Children Been Exposed to Lead Paint?
- Was your building built before 1978? It is possible that lead paint was used.
- Peeling paint is a signal that there may be lead in your home.
- Paint chips containing lead are very dangerous and can cause learning problems. At high levels, lead can even cause mental retardation.
- A blood-lead test is the only way to diagnose lead poisoning.
We urge you to test your children to detect lead poisoning in time to prevent or limit injury.
If you believe that your child has been poisoned, call your family doctor or local health department immediately. If your child is a victim of lead paint poisoning, or for a more complete explanation of your legal rights, call us today at (619) 238-8700 for a free consultation.
