Q: If my soil has high lead levels and I can't afford to remove the dirt, what else can I do?

A: Research has shown that if there is a protective layer covering the soil, a child's exposure to the lead is reduced. Growing thick grass, placing several inches of tree bark on the ground or covering bare soil with cement all help.

Q: I've heard that lead gets into house dust. How does that happen?

A: Two ways are pets and shoes tracking soil in from outside. Placing doormats both inside and outside doors can help reduce household dust. Better yet, have everyone take their shoes off inside the door. Have children wash their hands often, especially when they come in from the yard.

Q: Is there anything I should do to reduce lead dust?

A: Wash your window frames, windowsills and wood floors weekly. A cotton mop is better than a sponge mop, and cleaners specifically made to pick up lead are best for windowsills. A mixture of dishwasher soap and water works well, too.

Q: I have a vegetable garden. Is it safe to eat produce if I live in an area with lead-contaminated soil?

A: It depends. One report from the University of Minnesota Extension Service says it is generally safe to eat produce grown in soils with a lead level less than 300 parts per million, because plants do not take in large amounts of lead from the soil. Vegetables produced from a flower -- like cucumbers, green peppers or tomatoes -- are also safe, according to a report from Cornell University, because lead does not concentrate in a vegetable's fruit. Plants may absorb lead through their roots, making carrots, radishes, turnips and root crops troublesome. Lead can also concentrate in leaves, making lettuce a potential concern. Lead dust from contaminated dirt can also get on the produce -- or the gardener. Washing vegetables with a solution of water and 1 percent vinegar or 0.5 percent liquid dishwashing soap helps, according to Cornell University.

Q: Are there any other sources of lead in my house that I should watch?

A: Lead could be in your water if you live in an area with lead pipes or solder. Cooking by starting with cold water, letting the water run for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before getting a glass, and buying a water filtration device that removes lead and is approved by the National Sanitation Foundation all can help. Lead can also be in a variety of other products, including mini-blinds, necklaces and hair dye. For a partial list of alerts, visit the National Safety Council Web site at: www.nsc.org/ehc/nlic/alerts.htm

Sources: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Free Press research. Compiled by Wendy Wendland-Bowyer.