Lead Safe Columbus

       Many houses and apartments built before 1978 have paint that contains high levels of lead (called lead-based paint.) Lead from paint, chips, and dust can pose serious health hazards if not taken care of properly. There are several methods that can be done at home to make your house more lead safe.

In your Home:

• Wash your hands before preparing snacks and meals.
• Wash children's hands often, especially before they eat and before nap time and bed time.
• Wash bottles, pacifiers and toys often.
• Clean weekly using a solution of water and cleaner to wet-mops floors and wipe windowsills.
• Thoroughly rinse sponges and mop heads after cleaning dirty or dusty areas.
• Keep children from chewing window sills or other painted surfaces.
• Be alert for chipping and flaking paint. Report it to your landlord if you rent.
• Clean up paint chips immediately.
• Read labels on hobby and craft materials to be sure they don't contain lead.
• Wipe dirt off of shoes before coming inside. Or leave shoes at the door.

 Outside your Home:

• Plant your garden in a safe, lead-free area away from painted buildings and busy roads.
• Plant grass to cover dirt. Have children play on grass, not dirt.