No matter when you remodel or redecorate, it's important to remember that homes built before 1978 may contain lead paint. Sanding or demolishing walls covered with lead paint, even if it's buried under layers of newer paint, will result in lead dust. This dust can spread throughout the house or wind up in the soil outside.

Children are vulnerable to lead. In fact, lead poisoning continues to be the number one children's environmental health problem in the United States.

Always test the paint for lead before painting and renovating if you live in a pre-1978 home. You should also test if your paint is chipping or deteriorating in any way.

Other Decorating Tips:

• Use least-toxic supplies to avoid subjecting your family to chemical fumes.
• Avoid pressure treated wood, which can contain arsenic, and particleboard, which gives of formaldehyde fumes.
• Clean up well. Leave no dust behind!
• Pregnant women and children should not be allowed on the scene!

See Resource Room for more information on building and decorating supplies.