Cleanup is underway in a Salem neighborhood after a mercury exposure.

Crews from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Columbiana County Emergency Management Agency, and the Salem Health Department lined Edgewood Drive Saturday afternoon, laying tarps and equipment in the driveway of one home.

A U.S. EPA official on scene told 21 News that they were contacted by poison control about a family that was potentially exposed to mercury.

"We came in and just this morning did locate a jar of mercury that may have been left by a previous homeowner, that somehow was spilled onto the ground in the basement," said John Gulch, On-Scene Coordinator for the U.S. EPA.

21 News spoke to Salem Mayor Cyndi Dickey, who says there is no danger to any other home or person in the surrounding area. Two children in the home were exposed and are recovering.

Mercury is a naturally occurring chemical, but it can be highly toxic to humans.

The use of mercury in consumer products is limited, but that has not always been the case. Some antiques like clocks, thermometers, old appliances and auto parts contain levels of mercury that can harm humans. However, people are most commonly exposed by consuming some types fish, according to information from the EPA.

If you have mercury in your home, Gulch says to contact your local health department for assistance in removing it.

"Mercury is a very dangerous chemical," he added. "If you know you have mercury, it's definitely a good thing to contact the authorities and get that out of your house before there is a spill."