Keeping Kids Safe from Lead

Published on October 25, 2026

When a blood test shows that a child has a high lead level, parents often have questions: What does this mean? Is my child safe? What should we do next?

Families don't have to navigate those questions alone. Arlington Public Health helps families learn where lead may be coming from, what to do next, and how to get support.

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (October 25–31) encourages families to learn about lead and how to prevent lead poisoning.

Photo: Licensed lead risk assessor Julia Balsley demonstrates collecting a floor dust wipe sample, one of the methods used to identify potential lead hazards in a home.

A Call That Starts a Team Response

Lead poisoning often has no symptoms. A child can look healthy and behave normally even if lead is affecting their growth and development. That's why blood lead testing is so important.

When a child's test shows a high lead level, Arlington Public Health reaches out to the family.

"Getting this news can be scary," said Michele Fletcher, a public health nurse. "One of our first goals is helping families understand the results, what happens next, and that they have support."

Nurses work with families and healthcare providers to make sure children get follow-up testing and information about lead safety.

In some cases, the next step is finding the source of the lead.

"No one person handles a lead case alone," said Julia Balsley, a licensed lead risk assessor. "Protecting children from lead exposure requires coordination across several teams. That collaboration helps us respond quickly and connect families with the resources they need."

Looking for the Source

Sometimes, Arlington Public Health helps families find where the lead is coming from.

Lead is often found in homes built before 1978 with lead-based paint. It can also be found in dust, soil, water, and some imported products, including spices, cosmetics, and cookware.

"Many families are surprised by where lead can be found," said Julia Balsley. "We help families find possible sources of lead and share ways to make their homes safer."

When needed, staff visit homes and collect samples from places that may contain lead. They then share the results and explain ways to reduce lead hazards.

What Families Can Do

Families can take simple steps to help prevent lead poisoning:

• Talk to their child's healthcare provider about lead testing.
• Learn where lead hazards may be found.
• Clean floors, windowsills, and surfaces with a damp cloth or mop to reduce dust.
• Wash children's hands and toys regularly.
• Use lead-safe work practices during home repairs and renovations.
• Have older homes inspected for lead hazards when appropriate.

"Every lead exposure we prevent is an opportunity to protect a child's health and future," said Michele Fletcher.

To learn more about lead hazards and ways to prevent lead poisoning, visit the Lead Safe Virginia website.