According to recent news sources, about 38 million homes in America contain lead-based paint. Lead-based paint is harmful to those who are surrounded by it, especially when it’s disturbed while renovating occurs. Lead poisoning can have severe health effects, especially on children.
This week is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, and the Environment Protection Agency has offered up these tips to keep your home safe:
-Get your home tested: If your home was built before 1978, you should have your home tested for poisoning. Lead paint in homes was banned after 1978.
-Get your child tested: Even if your child seems healthy, getting them tested for lead can help determine if one of the places they play or sleep exposes them to the harmful chemical.
-Educate yourself on lead-based paint poisoning at leadfreekids.org.
At home, Do it yourself lead-based paint kits are also available for testing in your home. They are not 100% reliable, but can be a good indication if there is lead in your home. If you do find the presence of lead, notify a professional to confirm your findings.
As a Los Angeles personal injury attorney, I know that prevention can be key in avoiding disaster. If you or someone you love has been affect by lead-based paint poisoning, the product liability lawyer at our law firm recommends you seek medical attention.