Lead-Safe Wisconsin: For Families and Caregivers

Young children are most at-risk for lead poisoning. If you care for a young child, this page is here to help. Understand the risks of lead, learn how to keep your child safe, and find out how get your child tested.

What is lead poisoning?

Parent and child meeting with a pediatric neurologist sitting at a desk with a brain scan on their computer

Lead impacts the body in many ways. Understand why it hurts young children the most and why even low levels can be dangerous.

Sources of lead

Toddler reaching to peel paint off an old window frame

Lead hides in more places than you think. You can find it in paint, soil, and even makeup. It's important to understand sources of lead and how to avoid them.

Test your child for lead

Gloved hand holding blood sample in a test tube for a lead test

Children are often exposed to lead without our knowledge. The only way to know if your child was exposed to lead is with a blood test.

Make your home lead-safe

Room being renovated.

Lead can be in your home or rental. Easy, everyday tasks can keep your home and child safe.

Lead exposure and pregnancy

An ultrasound was performed on a pregnant adult.

Lead can harm both the pregnant person and the baby. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, learn how to stay safe.

About the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

A smiling young child flexing an arm muscle.

Wisconsin works with families, health care providers, and communities to prevent lead poisoning.

More information

Looking for additional details or tools? These resources can help you go deeper, stay informed, and find materials to share with others:

Forms, Publications, and Outreach Materials

Download fact sheets, brochures, screening forms, and educational materials to use at home, in clinics, or throughout your community.

Wisconsin Lead Poisoning Data

Explore state and local data on childhood lead poisoning to better understand where risks exist and how Wisconsin is working to reduce them.

Glossary

 
Last revised June 10, 2025