Lead Poisoning Prevention

RECALL: Lil Anglers Fishing Rods sold with Kid Casters NoTangle Combos

This product is being recalled because of a violation of the federal lead content ban, posing a po2023 Lead Recall of Fishing Rod and Accessoriesssible health risk, especially to young children.

See more information at the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). 

Please see another recent recall alert or search by hazard or type of item on the US CPSC. 

Could you tell me what lead is?

Lead is a toxic heavy metal that can cause serious health problems, particularly in young children and pregnant women. Lead can be harmful if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed into the body.

  • We provide education for the community regarding lead poisoning risks and nutrition
  • We provide follow-up and case management for children with elevated lead levels
  • We share social media  (www.facebook.com/LivCoNY)  about how to check for recalls through the Consumer Product Safety Commission: cpsc.gov/recalls.
  • For more information about our programs and services, contact us at 585-243-7299.

Be mindful of the following:

  • Toys purchased from social media marketplaces
  • Thrift stores toys
  • Hand-me-downs
  • Dollar store items (especially toys, jewelry and kid's cosmetics)
  • PAINT, PAINT, PAINT!!!  Old paint on window sills, antique rocking chairs, and old toys can be toxic to young children.

Why is lead harmful?

Lead is dangerous to everyone, but children six and under are at the greatest risk because lead can:

  • Slow a child’s growth and development
  • Cause behavior and learning problems
  • Cause hearing and speech problems
  • At high levels, lead exposure may cause problems with the kidneys and the development of red blood cells, and may lead to seizures and death.  
  •  Most children have no symptoms when they are exposed to lead.
  • Lead poisoning can decrease IQ, and increase learning disabilities & behavioral disorders, and cause low iron.
  • Children between the ages of 9 months and 6 years of age are at the greatest risk of exposure to lead because they are apt to put fingers, hands, and toys in their mouths.  

  • For more information about the dangers of lead to infants, visit the CDC.

Lead can be found in  toys, jewelry, make-up, and stickers including:

  • Imported herbal medicines from the Middle East, Latin America, India, and China
  • Imported candy and spices from Mexico, the Middle East, Latin America, India, and China
  • Imported cosmetics like Kohl, Kajal, Surma, and Sindoor from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Middle Eastern and African countries
  • Imported costume jewelry and toys that are made in other countries and often sold in dollar and discount stores
  • Flaking or peeling lead-based paint in homes built before 1978
  • Lead dust from flaking or peeling lead-based paint that lands on window sills, floors, and toys
  • Plumbing pipes that corrode and leach into water in homes build or plumbed before 1985
  • Soil around homes and buildings if exterior lead-based paint flakes or peels, and from drain spouts.
  • Ceramic pottery from other countries, especially Latin America, China, and India 


Reduce lead hazards with cleaning tips
Document.png

For Recalled Products check the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): 

Some of the recalls frScooter Recallom CPSC:

  • In 2020, 52,900 super soakers (see image) were recalled due to dangerous levels of lead in the ink on the sticker which exceeded the federal lead levels.
  • In 2022, 5,000 scooters (see image) were recalled because the paint exceeded US lead levels which pose a lead poisoning hazard to young children.
  • "Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effectSuper Soaker Recalls" -

How do I know if my child has been exposed to lead?

You can find out if your child has been exposed to lead by having a simple blood test done by your child’s medical provider.

  • All children in New York State MUST have a lead test at ages one and two
  • You can check with your child’s medical provider to see if your child has been tested for lead
  • If you think your child may have been exposed to lead, contact your child’s medical provider and request a lead test
  • Pregnant women should also be tested for lead exposure by their prenatal health care provider because lead exposure can cause a miscarriage or low birth weight

How can I reduce my child’s risk of lead exposure?

Lead poisoning is 100% preventable.  You can reduce the risk of your child becoming exposed by:

  • Keeping your home clean and dust free by picking up any paint chips you see and by wet mopping
  • Washing your child’s hands frequently, especially before meals and snacks
  • Feeding your child foods that are high in calcium and iron such as leafy green vegetables, cheese, yogurt, and poultry or fish
  • Running the cold water 1-3 minutes in the morning before using it if you have older plumbing
  • Only using cold water for cooking, making baby formula and mixing drinks

5 Things You Can Do to Lower Your Child’s Lead Level

Know the Facts About Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning printable infographic regarding lead poisoning prevention.