What is one effective strategy to reduce lead hazards in a home?

Replacing lead-painted windows, doors, and woodwork is an effective strategy to reduce lead hazards in a home because these elements are often significant sources of lead exposure. Lead paint, particularly in homes built before 1978, can deteriorate and create lead dust or chips, which pose serious health risks, especially to children. When these components are replaced, it effectively eliminates the lead hazard rather than simply covering it up.

While painting over lead-painted surfaces may seem like a temporary solution, it does not remove the hazard and can potentially lead to further deterioration and exposure. Using lead-free decorative items and increasing ventilation can be beneficial but do not address existing lead hazards within the structure. Thus, replacing lead-painted windows, doors, and other woodwork directly tackles the source of the problem, making it the most effective strategy.