Reduce lead exposure in your home. Evaluate lead risks in your home if you live in pre-1978 housing, whether or not you have children. The main concerns are deteriorating paint, dust, soil, and water. Go to www.epa.gov/lead and click on Lead Professionals. For more information on lead abatement, go to www.centerforhealthyhousing.org.

Have children tested for lead. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends all children be tested at ages 1 and 2. Some pediatricians also recommend testing at annual checkups under age 6.

Check recall lists. Go to www.cpsc.gov for photos and descriptions of toys and other products recalled due to lead contamination. Follow manufacturers' instructions for returning the products. For more tips on preventing exposure, check out our safety blog.

Consume adequate calcium and iron. People whose diets don't contain sufficient amounts absorb more lead.