QUESTION: I purchased a string of decorative lights for Halloween and it states on the box that they contain lead. Are they dangerous just being in our house? - 20 Sep 2007 USA

I recently purchased a string of decorative indoor or outdoor lights for Halloween, and the box states that they contain lead and it warns you to wash your hands after touching them. I put the lights on my mantle over the fireplace but now I am wondering if they emit lead dust or vapors? In other words, are they dangerous just being in our house?

ANSWER: 20 Sep 2007

Dear Harvey,

Regarding the string of decorative lights, I would recommend you dispose of it since the manufacturer frankly said it contains lead. The reason I said that is kids may touch it then put their hands in their mouth and that could be quite dangerous, specially since they said to wash your hands after touching them. So it is better to avoid anything containing lead in the house, especially if it is colourful and attractive like the decorative lights.

Regards, Iman Hegazi MBBS, MD. Forensic Medicine and Toxicology. Volunteer