On the surface, your home may seem safe, but there are many hazards that all parents should be aware of.
How safe is your home? Your cozy, clean and comfortable home could also be hiding unsuspected safety hazards that effect the health and well being of you and your family. Find out what they are—and how to prevent them from wreaking havoc in your happy home.
Health
- Pay attention to unusual or frequent health issues. Chronic sore throats and colds, flu-like symptoms and asthma attacks can be the result of reactions to certain chemicals stored in the house.
- Keep products in their original containers and store them safely away from children and pets. Never store leftover chemicals in food or beverage containers. Never pour harmful household products down toilets or drains unless they are meant for that purpose.
- Read labels and know what you have. Take all precautions to make sure all chemicals are used correctly and stored securely.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning may first appear as flu-like symptoms. Installing a carbon monoxide detector can protect you and your family from this deadly poison.
Home
- Know the composition of your home. If it’s an old home, make sure all the asbestos and lead (in plumbing or paint) has been removed. A professional home inspector can help you identify these dangers.
- In recent years, much has been written about VOCs—volatile organic compounds, which are used in home building. These may be found in paints, formaldehyde and the glue used to make furniture.
- Choose wisely: Look for low-VOC paints, carpet and flooring. Ask questions about the manufacturer.
Hidden Dangers
- Years of shampooing a wall-to-wall carpet may keep it looking fresh. But did you know that the moisture and lack of air could cause black mold to grow underneath?
- Children and adults can suffer severe health issues, such as asthma attacks, from chronic exposure to black mold.
- Replace rugs and routinely look in dark corners and behind large furniture for the presence of mold. Have it professionally cleaned ASAP if you discover it.
Evaluate
- What are you overlooking? You’ve probably already got a lot of safety measures in place, like smoke detectors. But when was the last time you tested them or replaced the batteries?
- Look for loose, slippery rugs and poorly lit stairwells that can cause falls. Make sure all medications are in a place where children cannot access them. Check to see that your pool gate is locked. Never leave your little one in a tub, even for a second. Check electrical sockets for too many plugs. Lock your doors and windows when you’re not home.
- Little things you do each day can add up to a much safer home. Just don’t forget to do them!
Photo By: Personal Creations, May 6, 2015 via Flickr, Creative Commons Attribution.
