Safe Summer, Smart Families: Keep the Lead Away
Lead is a sneaky and toxic metal. If even a small amount of lead gets into our body, it can cause damage and health problems that can't be reversed. All people can be affected by lead, but children 6 years old or younger are more vulnerable because their developing brains and bodies absorb lead more easily than older children or adults.
This summer, you can take simple steps to keep the lead away and keep your family safe from lead poisoning. With more sunshine and warmer weather, you may find yourself and your kids outside more often. To keep your kids safe, avoid letting them play in bare soil around older homes or buildings unless the soil has been replaced and you are sure it is free from lead contamination. If you're out gardening this summer, garden in raised beds if you live in a home where soil may be contaminated with lead.
When it's time to come back in from your outdoor activities, make sure that you and your kids take off and leave shoes outside of the home to prevent tracking any lead into the home. It is also important to remember to wash hands after playing outside as well as before eating and sleeping (including naptime).
When it's time for a snack or meal, encourage your child to eat healthy foods that have calcium, iron, and vitamin C - this helps the body with absorbing less lead. Examples of foods with calcium include milk, milk products, and green leafy vegetables. Examples of foods with iron include tofu and legumes (peas and beans). Examples of foods with vitamin C include green and red peppers, oranges, strawberries, and tomatoes. When it comes to hydration, make sure to practice water safety by flushing tap water until it runs cold. Use cold water only for making baby formula, cooking, and drinking.
Have a fun and safe summer!
If you have any questions or comments, contact the Snohomish County Health Department Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program by phone at 425-258-8401 or by email at leadprogram@co.snohomish.wa.us.
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