Dirt could hurt: warnings for National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

EUREKA, CA., (KIEM)- Dirt doesn’t hurt. We’ve all heard it, and some of us have said it, but you may want to think twice before letting your child play on uncovered dirt. It could be the key to preventing lead poisoning.

“Lead poisoning can hard a child’s brain.” Michelle Postman, a Health Education Specialist for the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services explains. “[It can] make it hard for them to learn, pay attention, and behave.”

And the symptoms, are sometimes completely absent. “That’s why testing is so important.” Postman says. When a child it about one or two years of age, its recommended they be tested for lead exposure. “By this age they are into everything and everything goes into their mouths. If there’s lead in the environment it’s likely they’ll be exposed to it.”

So how can you protect your children? Try and avoid letting them play in uncovered dirt, keep surfaces clean, and avoid lead based paint. You can avoid concerns about contamination from older pipes by running cold water for at least 30 seconds before using anything from the tap.

For more information from DHHS click here.