Lead exposure remains a serious public health concern in Toledo, particularly for young children living in older homes. Although many people think of lead poisoning as a problem of the past, health officials say the risk still exists in communities with aging housing stock.

Monica Smith, Lead Safe Coordinator for the City of Toledo, says awareness and prevention are key to protecting families.

“Lead poisoning is 100 percent preventable,” Smith said. “There are steps residents can take to reduce exposure in their homes.”

How lead exposure happens

Young children are most often exposed to lead through dust contaminated with lead-based paint. This dust can collect on floors, toys, windowsills and other household surfaces.

Children may inhale the dust or touch contaminated areas and then put their hands in their mouths.

Lead exposure is especially dangerous for young children because their brains and nervous systems are still developing. Their bodies also absorb lead more easily than adults, which increases the risk of long-term health effects.

In many cases, symptoms are difficult to detect. Parents might notice a child becoming more tired, irritable or less focused. Some children experience slower development or stomach problems. However, Smith warns that many children with lead exposure appear completely healthy.

“Lead exposure often happens without noticeable signs or symptoms,” she said.

Why Toledo faces higher risks

Older housing plays a major role in Toledo’s lead exposure risk.

More than 80 percent of the city’s homes were built before 1978, the year lead-based paint was banned for residential use in the United States. When this paint chips, peels or is disturbed during repairs, it can create hazardous lead dust.

According to the Ohio Department of Health, Lucas County’s lead poisoning rates are higher than the state average, and the city of Toledo’s rates are even higher than the county average.

Because of the age of local housing, every ZIP code in Toledo is considered high-risk for childhood lead exposure.

Homes most at risk often include:

• Houses built before 1978
• Older rental properties
• Homes with chipping or peeling paint
• Houses with dust buildup near windows and floors
• Bare soil around older homes

How families can reduce lead risks

While the risk can sound alarming, Smith emphasizes that there are many practical steps families can take to reduce exposure. Parents should focus on preventing the spread of lead dust and maintaining paint surfaces inside the home.

Some key prevention tips include:

• Keep paint intact and repair chipping or peeling paint safely
• Clean floors and windowsills using wet methods, such as damp cloths or disposable wipes
• Wash children’s hands and toys frequently
• Avoid dry sweeping, which can spread contaminated dust into the air
• Use a HEPA-filter vacuum to capture fine particles
• Keep children away from deteriorating paint

Even small habits can make a difference.

“Washing children’s hands frequently, wiping pet paws before they enter the house, and wet-wiping surfaces are simple steps that help reduce exposure,” Smith said.

What renters and landlords should know

In Toledo, rental property owners have specific responsibilities related to lead safety.

Landlords who own one- to four-unit residential rental properties built before 1978 must obtain a Lead Safe Certificate. The certification process requires a lead-safe inspection conducted by a licensed lead inspector.

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Property owners are also responsible for maintaining their buildings to ensure paint remains intact and no new lead hazards develop.

If renters suspect lead hazards in their home, Smith recommends contacting their landlord immediately and requesting that repairs be handled using lead-safe work practices. If a landlord will not do test for lead, contact LeadSafe Toledo.

Testing children for lead

Health experts recommend that children be tested for lead exposure at 12 months and 24 months of age. Additional testing may be needed for children between 24 months and 6 years old, especially if they live in older housing.

Parents should speak with their healthcare provider or contact the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department for information about testing and prevention services.

Community programs and resources

The Toledo Lead Safe Program works to reduce lead hazards by educating residents, guiding property owners through the lead-safe certification process and connecting families with resources.

The program also collaborates with several community partners, including:

• Toledo-Lucas County Health Department
• Toledo Lead Resource Center
• Toledo Lead Poisoning Prevention Coalition

These partnerships help provide education, testing resources and support for safer housing throughout the community.

Residents can learn more about programs and services by visiting toledoleadsafe.com.

Looking ahead

The Toledo Lead Safe program aims to expand education and outreach while increasing the number of rental properties that obtain lead-safe certification.

Smith says awareness remains one of the most important tools in preventing lead exposure.

“One common misconception is that lead poisoning is a problem of the past,” she said. “But many older homes still contain lead-based paint, and even a clean-looking home can contain invisible lead dust.”

By staying informed, maintaining homes safely and testing children early, families can take important steps toward preventing exposure.

“Lead poisoning is completely preventable,” Smith said. “With the right knowledge and precautions, we can protect children and create healthier homes for everyone.”