Lead is a heavy metal that can cause serious health effects when it enters the body. Lead particles can be ingested, inhaled or absorbed through the bloodstream. Because lead has a potent effect on the brain and nervous system, it is especially dangerous for children, whose bodies are still developing.
If you or a family member you love has suffered the effects of lead poisoning from a defective product, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced New York products liability lawyer. Here are four ways to reduce your overall lead exposure and help protect your family.
- Find out when your house was built. Buildings constructed before 1978 are likely to have lead paint covering part or all of their walls. Check the date on your house, your children’s school and other places you and your family frequent. Ask whether lead remediation has been performed.
- Test your house and soil. Home lead test kits can be purchased at most hardware stores. The state or local health department can also help you test your home and yard, and they can provide information on what to do if you find lead in the paint, plumbing or soil.
- Move out during renovations. If you’re renovating a house built before 1978, make plans to move out until all the lead dust and paint have been removed. Hire professionals certified in lead abatement to carry out the renovations.
- Wash everything. Water traps lead dust particles and helps keep them out of a child’s mouth, where they can be ingested. Wipe hands, faces and toys regularly to reduce lead exposure.
Contact the experienced attorneys at Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP today if you believe you have a viable lead poisoning claim in New York.