Lead Information
for Parents

Home

In homes built before 1978:

• Ensure painted surfaces are kept in good condition and not peeled or deteriorated
• Clean hard floors with a wet mop
• Wipe windowsill, counters, and other horizontal surfaces with a wet cloth
• Use a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuum to clean carpets
• Cover bare soil areas with grass, concreate, or bark
• Ensure repairs that disturb painted surfaces are done using lead-safe work practices (dust-free and contained)

Work or Hobbies

The following occupations may be exposed to lead:

The following hobbies may be exposed to lead:

If you are exposed to lead in your work or with any hobbies:

• Make sure that you wash your hands and face thoroughly with soap and water when finished working or before going home
• Change into clean clothes and shoes before entering your home
• Wash work clothes separately from the rest of the family's clothes

Candy

Imported candies from Mexico frequently have lead levels above what is allowed by California state law, especially if the candies have tamarind or chili powder. Please visit Department of Public Health Food & Drug Branch for the latest information on lead candy recalls.

Toys or Jewelry

Some lead test kits can be used to test the product, but they will only tell you if the surface paint contains lead. Visit Consumer Product Safety Commission to check for the latest recalls.

Also, examine the condition of your child's toys - remove any toys that are damaged or have deteriorated paint. If your child doesn't chew on toys, they can still be exposed by lead paint or dust on their hands. Wash your child's hands regularly after playing and before eating.

Home Remedies

Many imported home remedies, such as Greta, Azarcon, and Suma, contain dangerous levels of lead or other poisons. Also, dietary or herbal supplements are not inspected by the FDA. High lead levels have been found in some imported herbal supplements. If you or your child have taken any of these products, contact you doctor to ask for a lead test.

Water

Drinking water can be contaminated by lead from old water pipes, solder, and brass fixtures. When water sits in the pipes for more than 6 hours, lead can begin to leach into the water. If you haven’t used your water for a while, it is recommended that you run the cold water for at least 1 minute before you drink it or use it for cooking.

Get a Lead Test

Unfortunately, the symptoms for lead poisoning are very difficult to spot, especially at very low levels. The only way to know for sure if you or your child have lead poisoning is through testing. Even low levels of lead in the blood can cause permanent harm.

Lead Recalls

For information on toys, crafts, jewelry and accessories, furniture, foodware and other items that have been recalled due to lead, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

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