Soil and dust in the play area may be contaminated by industrial emissions or by emissions from automobiles that still use leaded gasoline. This house was located directly behind a gas and service station. To make the situation even worse, the children's play area was below the ground level of the gas station, so all runoff from the gas station could easily enter the play area. Finally, there was a small drainage ditch along the edge of the play area that frequently held water and debris. As children played outside, they not only got potentially contaminated dirt on their hands, but also their toys and balls often landed in this ditch.
Drinking water is another potential source of lead exposure.
Very little of our nation's water is lead-contaminated at the source but household drinking water can be contaminated by lead in the delivery system. Pipes, solder, and flux used in plumbing systems, and sink fixtures, may contain lead. However, lead also is present in many other products found in childcare programs. Some imported toys, color crayons, vinyl mini-blinds, ceramic dishes and pottery, and porcelain have been tested and found to have lead contents in varying amounts. Prevention Prevention of childhood lead poisoning begins with knowledge.