Lead is a metal found naturally in the earth's crust and can be added to certain products. There are many ways lead can get into your home - soil, pesticides, drinking water, paint and dust to name a few. Exposure to lead can make you feel sick.

The good news is lead exposure can be stopped! Take off your shoes, wash your hands and mop and dust floors, walls, ceilings, windows regularly.

 

We usually think of air pollution as being outdoors, but the air in your home could also be polluted. Indoor air pollution can come from tobacco smoke, mould and gases like carbon monoxide.

Keeping the air clean at home is important.

 

All plants and animals, including people, have to drink water. But sometimes our water gets germs and chemicals in it.  You and your family can help keep your water clean.

• If your community receives a Boil Water Advisory/Order, you must boil any water you use for drinking, cooking, making ice cubes, washing food, and brushing your teeth.  This should be a rolling boil for at least one minute.
• Do not drink water directly from a rubber hose, especially if the hose has been in the sun all day. The rubber can break down and leak toxic chemicals.

 

 

Pesticides are used to get rid of pests or keep them away. However sometimes pesticides can be very harmful to people, especially if they are not used correctly.

 

Labels often use words to show how toxic or dangerous the product is.  The words are: Caution, Danger, and Extreme Danger. Labels can also use Warning Symbols.

Make sure you know what the warning symbols mean so there are no accidents. You and your family need to be careful not to come in contact with the chemicals!

 

Sound is what you hear. Noise can be unwanted sounds that are unpleasant to the listener. Loud noise can badly damage your hearing if you are exposed to it long enough.

 

Congratulations! Look out for health risks in your environment and you'll make your home and community a safe place for you and your friends.