The single biggest source of lead poisoning is lead based paint. Usually, lead paint is found on the inside and outside of homes built before 1979. But lead based paint was also used on cars, trucks, old painted furniture and old toys. These items are sources of lead.
Dirt around old homes and sites of buildings which have been torn down may contain small chips of lead paint. Parents should protect their children from this source of lead.
Houses built before 1979 that are poorly maintained or being renovated are especially hazardous. More and more lead poisoning has been reported from families who move into a city as urban homeowners. Their children can be exposed to lead chips, lead fumes, and lead dust as this paint is removed from their homes.
