Primary prevention is the most effective way to prevent lead exposure. Actions you can take to reduce the risk of lead exposure include:
- Wash your hands and your children’s hands especially before eating and after playing outdoors.
- Eat foods that have enough iron and other vitamins and minerals. A person who eats a balanced, nutritious diet may absorb less lead. Eat at the table.
- Keep your floors dust-free by vacuuming and damp-mopping often. Leave outside shoes at the door. Damp dust frequently, especially window ledges and countertops.
- Keep outdoor play areas clean. Cover the sandbox when you are finished playing. Hose off patios, play equipment, and driveways often. Play on the grass and cover bare soil areas.
- Renovate safely. Seal off the area of work, and clean well when complete. Keep children and pregnant women away if possible.
Secondary prevention including blood lead testing and follow-up minimizes further exposure. Trail offers an annual voluntary blood lead testing clinic for children under five years old.