GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) – As temperatures rise, you might be itching to get out into the garden. It’s important to keep yourself, your family safe from harmful substances that could be in the soil.
Previous uses of lead in paint, leaded gasoline and industry practices have resulted in soil becoming contaminated over time, state health officials said.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is reminding residents about potential exposure when gardening, playing in bare soil, eating produce grown in contaminated soil, swallowing soil particles or breathing dust from contaminated soil.
Contaminated soil can also be tracked inside on shoes, clothing or from pets.
Health officials say following safe gardening practices may help lower the risk of coming into contact with contaminated soil.
The department recommends washing hands after gardening and before eating or drinking. Gardeners should wear gloves and use tools in the garden.
Officials advise against bringing gardening clothing, shoes, gloves and tools inside. Gardeners should avoid eating, drinking or smoking when working in the garden.
Produce should be washed before storing or eating it. Root vegetables should be peeled and outer leaves should be removed from leafy vegetables.
Residents can get their soil screened for lead, especially if their home was built before 1978.
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