Children and Lead Safety

Lead is harmful to children. Lead poisoning is especially dangerous for children under the age of six because their rapidly growing and developing bodies absorb more lead. It can cause permanent learning and behavioral problems that make it difficult for children to succeed in school.

Most children get lead poisoning from deteriorating lead paint in homes built before 1978 or from soil containing lead from gasoline residue. Children can also get lead poisoning from toys and objects decorated with lead-based paint.

For a tips on how to choose lead safe toys this holiday, click here. Read the full Monterey County Health Department, Childhood Lead Poisoning Factsheet here.