National Safety Month

I am partnering with the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance for National Safety Month! With a three year old in the house and a baby on the way, their checklist is so important for us. And, since we live in an old farmhouse that was built wayyy before 1980, the lead-based paint warnings caught my eye. I decided to do some more research. I was surprised - and kind of horrified - at what I found. Most of the walls have been re-done in the house but the windows are all original, with layers and layers of paint. This is cause for concern but there are preventative measures you can take to keep you and your family safe. 

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body. Children six years old and younger are most susceptible to the effects of lead. Even low levels of lead in the blood of children can result in:

• Behavior and learning problems 
• Lower IQ and Hyperactivity 
• Slowed growth 
• Hearing Problems 
• Anemia

Lead can also cross the placental barrier exposing the fetus the lead. This can result in serious effects to the mother and her developing fetus, including:

• Reduced growth of the fetus 
• Premature birth

Many are sadly unaware of the potential environmental toxins/issues in our living spaces. Again, along with lead-based paint, asbestos poses a great danger as it's invisible to the eye and can lead to lung diseases and a rare cancer called mesothelioma which the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance works so hard to share awareness for as avoiding exposure is the only prevention. It's not only still found in many older homes, but still has yet to be banned and actually used to this day in the US.

Simple steps like keeping your home clean and well-maintained will go a long way in preventing lead exposure. You can lower the chances of exposure to lead in your home, both now and in the future, by taking these steps:

• Inspect and maintain all painted surfaces to prevent paint deterioration
• Address water damage quickly and completely
• Keep your home clean and dust-free
• Clean around painted areas where friction can generate dust, such as doors, windows, and drawers. Wipe these areas with a wet sponge or rag to remove paint chips or dust
• Use only cold water to prepare food and drinks
• Flush water outlets used for drinking or food preparation
• Clean debris out of outlet screens or faucet aerators on a regular basis
• Wash children's hands, bottles, pacifiers and toys often
• Teach children to wipe and remove their shoes and wash hands after playing outdoors
• Ensure that your family members eat well-balanced meals. Children with healthy diets absorb less lead. See Lead and a Healthy Diet, What You Can Do to Protect Your Child (PDF)
• If you are having home renovation, repairs, or painting done, make sure your contractor is Lead-Safe Certified, and make sure they follow lead safe work practices (PDF)

Here's a complete summer safety checklist for your home! Be safe, friends.