Ensuring the safety of children from lead exposure is crucial, especially as they return to the classroom for the new school year. A recent report on lead-contaminated applesauce serves as a critical reminder of the importance of staying aware of potential sources of lead poisoning. The CDC and our federal, state and local public health partners work diligently every day to keep the American public safe from exposure to lead.
To help parents protect their children, here are five tips that follow recommendations from CDC, EPA, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and FDA.
Tip 1: Stay Informed about Lead Exposure Risks in Your School and Home
Understanding potential sources of lead exposure in schools is the first step in keeping your child safe. Lead can be found in the paint of residential homes built before the ban of lead-based paint in 1978, as well as drinking water and soil.
It’s essential to stay informed about your school’s efforts to address lead hazards and any ongoing testing or remediation measures. Parents can access information about lead levels in their child’s school through resources such as the EPA’s Lead in Drinking Water in Schools and Childcare Facilities manual or by contacting their local health department.
Safe drinking water is vital in preventing lead exposure. Parents should inquire about their community’s water testing results and any necessary precautions. If the water quality is a concern, consider using water filters certified to remove lead or providing bottled water for your child.
Your local water authority is your first source for information about the likelihood of lead content of your community supplied tap water. Many public water providers have data on drinking water quality, including lead levels, as part of their annual Consumer Confidence Reports. You can find links to these data and more on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) website.
You can also ask to have your water tested. Many public water systems will test drinking water for residents upon request. There are also laboratories that are certified to test for lead in water. More information is available at the EPA’s National Lead Laboratory Accreditation Program and the EPA’s Certification Programs and Certified Laboratories for Drinking Water contact information page.
For additional information on how to reduce lead in drinking water, refer to the Environmental Protection Agency’s Steps You Can Take to Reduce Lead in Drinking Water.
Tip 2: Ensure School Supplies are Lead-Free
Choosing lead-free school supplies is essential for your child’s safety. Choose lunch boxes, water bottles and other school items labeled as lead-free or free from harmful substances.
Tip 3: Stay Updated on Consumer Product Recalls
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regularly recalls products that could expose children to lead. Visit their website for photos and descriptions of recalled products. For more information on lead in food, cosmetics and medicines, visit the CDC’s website. If you have concerns about the safety of food cans, dishes or glasses, contact the FDA, the primary lead federal agency for food safety, nutrition, and labeling.
Tip 4: Promote Healthy Nutrition Habits
A healthy diet can help reduce the absorption of lead in children’s bodies. Nutritious meals and snacks rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin C are beneficial. Foods like milk, yogurt, spinach and citrus fruits can play a significant role in minimizing lead absorption.
Providing and encouraging your child to eat a balanced diet is not only good for overall health but also a preventive measure against lead toxicity. For more information, visit Actions to Reduce Potential Lead Exposure | US EPA. You can also refer to the EPA’s guide on Fighting Lead Poisoning with a Healthy Diet.
Tip 5: Communicate with Healthcare Providers
Regular check-ups for children are essential. Parents should discuss any concerns or questions about potential lead exposure with their healthcare provider. Healthcare providers can test for blood lead levels and offer advice on further steps to take if lead exposure is a concern. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing the adverse effects of lead on a child’s health. For more information, visit Testing for Lead Poisoning in Children | Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention | CDC.
Working Together to Ensure a Healthy School Year
Protecting children from lead exposure as they return to school, as well as every other day of the year, is of utmost importance. By following CDC, EPA and FDA recommendations, parents can take proactive steps to ensure their child’s safety. Staying informed about lead exposure risks at school, choosing lead-free supplies, ensuring safe drinking water, promoting healthy nutrition and communicating with healthcare providers are all essential measures. Together, these steps can help safeguard our children from the dangers of lead exposure, ensuring a healthy and safe school year.
