There are several ways to test your home for lead. The key to obtaining accurate and reliable testing is to be sure that the contractor or laboratory you use is experienced and reputable. The Consumer Product Safety Commission and the EPA are currently examining home lead testing kits, but have not endorsed any. These tests only tell whether lead is present or not. They do not indicate the level. Contact your local health agency for advice on how to have your home tested for lead. Once a problem has been found, action should be taken to eliminate the threat to your family from lead poisoning and protect them from possibly severe health problems.

Have your water tested for lead. Because you cannot see, taste, or smell lead dissolved in water, testing is the only sure way of telling whether or not there are harmful quantities of lead in your drinking water. Testing is particularly important in highrise buildings where flushing is not as effective because of the large volume of water supply piping.

Test paint, dishes, decanters, and soil, and check food and juice cans for lead soldering as well.

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