Among the symptoms of lead poisoning are leg cramps, muscle weakness, irritability, lethargy, stupor, behavioral disturbances, hyperexcitability, convulsions, brain damage, anemia, weight loss, and malnutrition. Other symptoms include headaches, sterility, miscarriage, or the birth of brain-damaged babies. Standard paint removal practices, such as heat guns, paint removers, and sanding, can be very dangerous when used on lead paint. To avoid water that has been standing in contact with pipes, run water 1 to 3 minutes before using. Use water from the cold water tap for drinking, cooking, and especially for making baby formula.
Hot water is more likely to contain lead.
Use only high-fired earthenware to cook or store food. Low-fired pottery can have remaining lead in the glaze which can leach into acidic foods. Never burn colored newsprint or magazines in the fireplace. Lead in the inks can be released into the room at levels that are dangerous to children, adults, and pets. Trace the ancestry of your pewter dishes and goblets.