Anyone can suffer from lead poisoning, but young children are especially vulnerable to serious complications from toxic exposure. Since lead exposure can happen virtually anywhere, from the home to the garden to the playground, parents need to be especially vigilant about protecting their kids. They can start by reviewing some of the most common sources of lead exposure, which an injury lawyer from Peck & Peck Attorneys At Law of Hartford, CT, has shared here. 

Watch Out for These 3 Sources of Lead Exposure 

1. Children’s Toys 

Although the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission tries to warn parents of new toys that contain lead, there is no way to be sure if older toys do. Avoid hand-me-down toys and those found at garage sales and thrift stores. If you purchase a new toy for your child and later learn that it contains lead, an injury lawyer can help you determine the most strategic way to proceed. 

2. Dust in Older Homes

Much like other New England states, Connecticut is home to beautiful historic buildings. Even if your home is not a designated historical landmark, though, your family could be at risk of lead exposure. Lead-based paint was used until 1978, which means if your house was built before then, it likely contains at least some lead paint. As it disintegrates, this paint releases particles into the air until they settle as dust on virtually every surface. 

3. Pipes

Contaminated water is a common cause of lead poisoning. Older plumbing systems—typically those installed before 1930—may be comprised of lead pipes or have brass fixtures that contain lead, which contaminates the drinking water as it passes through. Even today, many plumbers use lead components to join copper pipes. Fortunately, the risk of lead poisoning decreases as mineral deposits accumulate in the pipes, which typically takes about five years. Therefore, homes that are very old and brand new pose the greatest risk. 

If you think someone in your family has suffered toxic exposure, contact an injury lawyer at Peck & Peck Attorneys At Law. Based in Hartford County, CT, the compassionate legal team at this firm fights relentlessly on behalf of their clients. And since they focus solely on personal injury law, they can provide the most comprehensive, relevant, and up-to-date counsel possible. To request a free initial consultation with a personal injury attorney on their team, visit their website or call (860) 236-4782.