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Home Safety

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Introduction > Take the Test > Home Safety > Poison Safety > Safety Proofing > In Case of Emergency > Outdoor Safety > Home Safety Checklist

Preventing Poisoning > Poisonous Household Items > What To Do in Case of a Poisoning > Lead Poisoning

Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning most often happens when young children are exposed to paint or paint chips from older homes. Over 80 percent of homes built before 1978 used lead paint.

If you live in an older home and have young children or developmentally disabled adults in your household, consider having your home (and the people in it) tested for lead poisoning. High levels of lead in the bloodstream can lead to learning disabilities, behavioral problems, seizures, and even death.

For more information on lead poisoning, visit the Environmental Protection Agency's Lead Clearinghouse Web site. If you are renting your home, your landlord may be responsible for removing lead paint, check with the local housing authority or contact MTSTCIL to find out about your rights as a renter. For more information on making your home safe for young children and developmentally disabled adults, see our section on safety proofing your home.

For more information on all poisoning and to find contact information for your local poison control center, visit the American Association of Poison Control Centers Web site.

Next: Safety Proofing