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Lead Contamination in Your Yard
Play Areas can be made safer by properly locating them in the yard. Place swing sets and sand boxes away from areas where there is lead in soil. Use clean sand in the sand box. Children sometimes put toys and/or hands in their mouths, so make sure sandboxes are covered when not in use to prevent lead dust from getting into them.
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Walkways that are not paved create dust. Paving walkways with concrete or asphalt will limit dust and dirt that may be carried into the house. You may also use bricks, woodchips, or heavy gravel.
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Parking Areas should be confined to driveways or parking lots that are either paved or covered with gravel. Cars parked all over the yard can destroy grass and create dust that may contain lead.
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The Drip Zone is the narrow three foot strip around the foundation of your house. This is usually where the highest levels of lead are found. This is because over the years, paint chips containing lead have fallen to the ground and mixed with the top layer of soil. Cover this area with mulch, crushed stone, or a landscaping cloth.
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Lawns that are healthy will reduce exposure to lead in soil. Keeping your lawn healthy is the best and most practical solution for those who want to use their yards for playing and relaxing.
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For More Information...
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Massachusetts Programs
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