What health risks does lead paint pose to my kids? We're in an older home in Strathcona and I'm worried about the peeling paint on the window sills?

Your concern is well-founded — peeling lead paint on window sills is one of the highest-risk situations for children's lead exposure. Children under six are especially vulnerable because they frequently put their hands and objects in their mouths, and lead dust that settles on window sills, floors, and toys is easily ingested. Lead paint on window sills is particularly dangerous because the friction of opening and closing windows generates fine lead dust continuously.

Even low levels of lead exposure in children can cause serious and irreversible health effects. These include developmental delays, learning difficulties, reduced IQ, attention and behavioural problems, hearing damage, and slowed growth. There is no safe level of lead exposure for children according to Health Canada. The damage is cumulative and often shows no obvious symptoms until significant harm has already occurred.

In Strathcona, where many homes date from the early 1900s through the 1950s, multi-layered lead paint on original woodwork is very common. The peeling paint you're seeing on your window sills should be treated as an urgent priority.

As an immediate temporary measure, wipe all window sills weekly with a damp cloth and an all-purpose cleaner to reduce lead dust accumulation, and keep children's play areas away from the affected windows. Wash children's hands frequently, especially before eating. Do not attempt to sand or scrape the paint yourself, as this will dramatically increase dust levels.

Your most important next step is to have the peeling paint tested for lead, and if positive, arrange for professional abatement or encapsulation of those window sills as soon as possible. Your family doctor can also order a blood lead level test for your children to establish a baseline.

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