Homes built before 1978 are candidates for lead-paint testing. You and your children could be in danger of lead poisoning. Before 1978, most paints used lead as an integral part of their manufacture. Lead is poisonous to humans and animals, and is generally ingested by breathing or swallowing lead dust or contaminated paint dust. Lead is particularly harmful to children, who are less able to withstand its negative effects.
Small children are also more likely to ingest paint chips.
As long as lead-based painted surfaces remain undisturbed, there is no significant danger. However, when a pre-1978 home is remodeled, there is a high likelihood of lead dust exposure. But to be certain, hire a professional lead-testing service, listed in the yellow pages. If your home is found to have an unacceptable level of lead contamination, you'll need to retain the services of certified, licensed lead-removal experts. Automotive exhaust vents into this dirt, which traps and retains the lead particles.