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Public Health Solutions
District Health Department
995 East Hwy 33, Ste 1
Crete, NE 68333-2562
888.310.0565
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Lead Poisoning Prevention
More information for health care providers
More information for contractors
Find lead-trained contractors in your area
Contractor not doing lead-safe work? File a complaint
On-line training for DIY home renovators
Lead is a highly toxic substance that can have serious and even fatal effects. Though people of any age can be affected, young children are especially susceptible to lead poisoning. Elevated levels of lead in the blood affect every organ in the body, particularly the brain, and can cause behavioral and learning disabilities, seizures, decreased reaction time, weakness in fingers and joints, kidney damage, anemia, memory loss, brain damage, and even death.
Lead can be found in homes built before 1978, usually in the paint on window trim, baseboards and outdoor siding. It can also be found in some of the following:
- soil around the home
- Electronics (cords, plugs, etc.)
- Some old or imported products (dishware, toys, etc.)
- Some Mexican candies and folk remedies
Children are exposed to the lead by breathing or ingesting lead-contaminated dust, eating contaminated soil or paint chips, or consuming water that is contaminated with lead. Because children spend so much time close to the ground, tend to put their hands in their mouths, and often eat things they shouldn't, they are exposed to much higher amounts of lead than the average adult. In addition to greater exposure, their bodies are less able to detoxify, making them extremely susceptible to the effects of lead poisoning. Children under 6 years old should be tested for lead even if they appear healthy. Children who live in or frequent older homes should be tested at least annually from 1-6 years old.
Minimize your family's exposure to lead by vacuuming often using a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner, removing shoes before entering the house, keeping window sills clean and freshly painted, and using only lead-free dishware and toys.
Public Health Solutions has a licensed Lead Risk Assessor on staff to answer questions and help home-owners and day care providers with lead hazard identification. We also have Public Health Nurses to provide guidance on childhood lead testing. Call 888-310-0565, ext. 106.
Other Lead Prevention Resources:
HUD's home inspection checklist
**Lead removal from the home should only be done by a professional.
Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home (EPA)
Commonly Asked Questions About Lead Poisoning (Nebraska Health and Human Services)
Check for toy and child product recalls relating to lead paint
> Lead-related recalls, 2010 (as of July 14, 2010)
> Lead-related recalls, 2009 (as of Dec 31, 2009)
> Lead-related recalls, 2008 (as of Dec 31, 2008)
> Lead-related recalls, 2007 (as of Dec 31, 2007)
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