Lead Poisoning
High levels of lead in the blood can cause brain damage and permanent developmental problems in children. The most common source of childhood lead poisoning is the dust from lead-based paint. While lead paint was banned in 1978, much of the housing stock in South Jersey had been built. The Cooperative encourages families to test for lead dangers and follow lead-safe practices for cleaning and renovations.
Must Take Tests
Test Your Child
A blood test is the only way to know if a child has lead poisoning. These tests are done in a doctor's office, ideally before a child turns one. Children under the age of six who have never been tested should get one immediately.
Test Your Home
If you live in a home built before 1978, it should be tested for lead dust. The Wipe Out Lead testing kit is free and easy to use. Call 1-888-722-2903 to order one.
Learn how to test your home for lead paint dust using the Wipe Out Lead, do-it-yourself testing kit. Listed below are instructional videos detailing how to complete a lead kit. Video opens with overview of lead dangers. Simply click on the arrows of the frame to increase video size. The first video can be viewed in English and the second video is in Spanish.
Resources
To learn more, email us at WOLNJ@snjpc.org
