We have known for a long time that lead is hazardous to our health. We now know that even small amounts can be dangerous. Infants and children are especially vulnerable to lead because they absorb it more easily than adults.

Signs and symptoms of lead poisoning are often similar to other childhood complaints. Symptoms include headaches, irritability, tiredness. Therefore, a physician may not suspect lead poisoning. Examine your child’s environment for potential sources of lead.

In Canada, the Hazardous Products Act limits the amount of lead that can be used in paint. Children living in older homes where lead-based paints have been used are at risk for lead poisoning.

Be cautious of allowing children to play with older hand-me-down wooden toys. Lead-based paints may have been used to decorate them.

Another warning has recently been made regarding possible lead poisoning from certain ceramic glazes. To protect yourself from unnecessary exposure (as reported in The Calgary Herald, June 29, 1996):

• Take seriously the warning on collectors’ plates and other items marked for non-food use only.

• Flick with a fingernail any ceramic item you’re considering buying at a flea market or garage sale. A high-pitched ping means it was fired at a high temperature and doesn’t contain lead. A dull, low pitch means the piece was fired at a low temperature and the glazing may contain lead.

• Be wary of brightly colored imported food dishes with lusters such as mother-of-pearl.

• Glazed pottery.

• Target shooting at firing ranges.

• Lead soldering (such as electronics).

• Painting (with paints containing lead).

• Preparing lead shot, fishing sinkers.

• Stained glass.

• Car or boat repair.