Keep Kids Safe from Lead

 

Lead can be found in places where children live, learn and play—and exposure can happen without obvious signs. Young children are especially at risk because their bodies and brains are still developing.

The good news is that lead poisoning is preventable. Learning where lead may be found, having children tested when appropriate, and identifying hazards in the home can help protect children and families.

October 25–31, 2026, is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week. This year's theme, “Keep Kids Safe from Lead,” encourages families and communities to take three important steps:

Get the Facts. Get Your Child Tested. Get Your Home Tested.

Throughout October, Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department is encouraging families to learn about lead risks and the local services available to help prevent lead exposure.

 

 

Why Lead Matters
Lead can be harmful to anyone, but young children are especially at risk. Even low levels of lead in a child's blood can affect learning, attention and development.

Children with lead exposure may not look or act sick. A blood lead test is the best way to know if a child has been exposed.

Children may come into contact with lead through:

• Lead-based paint and dust in homes built before 1978
• Soil contaminated by lead
• Drinking water that passes through plumbing materials containing lead
• Some imported products, including certain toys, jewelry, spices, cosmetics or traditional remedies
• Take-home lead from a parent's or caregiver's job or hobby

Knowing where lead may be found is an important first step in preventing exposure.

Three Steps to Help Keep Kids Safe from Lead

Get the Facts
Lead exposure can happen in many ways. In homes built before 1978, old lead-based paint and the dust it creates are common sources of exposure. Lead may also be found in soil, drinking water, certain products, or brought home from some jobs and hobbies.
Families can reduce risk by learning about possible sources of lead and taking steps to keep lead dust and other hazards away from children.

Get Your Child Tested
A blood lead test is the best way to find out if a child has been exposed to lead. Because children with lead exposure often have no obvious symptoms, testing is especially important for children who may be at higher risk.
Talk with your child's healthcare provider about lead testing. Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department also offers blood lead screening for children ages 1–5.

Get Your Home Tested
If your home was built before 1978, it may contain lead-based paint. Peeling, chipping or damaged paint can create lead-contaminated dust, and renovation or repair work can disturb old paint and spread dust throughout the home.

If you are concerned about lead in your home, there are ways to identify potential hazards before they cause harm. Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department can help families learn more about lead hazards and available resources.

 

 

How SWNPHD Can Help

Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department offers services to help families prevent, identify and respond to lead exposure.

Blood Lead Screening
SWNPHD offers free blood lead screening for children ages 1–5 at our McCook and Ogallala offices. Appointments are required.

Support for Families
When a child has an elevated blood lead level, SWNPHD works with families to help identify possible sources of exposure and reduce the risk of continued exposure. This may include education, a lead risk assessment, information about safely cleaning lead dust, and other resources.

Lead Hazard Reduction
SWNPHD's Lead Hazard Reduction Program helps address lead hazards in qualifying homes. The program may provide assistance with identifying and reducing lead-based paint hazards in homes where young children live or spend time.

Eligibility requirements apply. Contact SWNPHD to learn more about the program and whether your home may qualify.

Have questions about lead? SWNPHD can help. Contact our office to learn more about blood lead screening, lead exposure prevention, family resources or the Lead Hazard Reduction Program.

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week: October 25–31

During National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, join families and communities across the country in learning about lead and taking steps to protect children from exposure.

Take Steps to Prevent Lead Exposure

Small actions can help reduce a child's risk of lead exposure:

• Keep floors, windowsills and other surfaces clean and free of dust.
• Wash children's hands, bottles, pacifiers and toys often.
• Watch for peeling, chipping or damaged paint, especially in homes built before 1978.
• Use lead-safe practices when repairing or renovating an older home.
• Talk with your child's healthcare provider about blood lead testing.
• Ask questions if you are concerned about possible lead exposure at home, work or through hobbies.

Lead poisoning is preventable. Learning about the risks and taking action early can help keep children healthy and safe.