Know the Health Hazards in Your Home
Lurking in your home are several health risks you need to be aware of and keep under control. Here are five hidden threats to your well-being and what you can do to protect yourself and most importantly, your family.
Dust Mites
These tiny, unseen organisms can cause allergies, asthma and cold-like symptoms. Since they are commonly found in bedding, you’ll need to seal your mattresses, box springs and pillows with allergy-protective covers. At least once a week, wash these covers. Keep floors clean and if you have carpet (tile is recommended to keep dust mites to a minimum), vacuum it thoroughly.
Medications
The consequences of young children taking medications can be deadly. Each year, many little ones lose their lives because their parents didn’t keep medications out of reach and locked up from their children.
Don’t call drugs candy to entice children to take them. Make sure you keep the phone number of Poison Control handy. Use good common sense and you’ll never need to contact them.
Cleaning Products
It’s not only medications that you need to keep from children, but it’s also household cleaners that should be safely tucked away. Children can consume virtually any product including bleach, detergents, furniture polish drain, toilet bowl and oven cleaners and rust remover. Keep these items on high shelves and if you must store them under sinks or in low cabinets, use a childproof lock.
Mold
In just a day or two, mold can grow quickly in damp, wet spots virtually anywhere in your home. When left untreated, mold’s musty odor can cause health issues. People with allergies and asthma could suffer from coughing, sneezing, wheezing, runny nose and more. Protect yourself by using a dehumidifier in each room, keep spaces well ventilated by occasionally opening windows and repair any water-related leaks as soon as you can.
Carbon Monoxide
In large quantities, carbon monoxide can kill you, but even in smaller amounts, this odorless gas may cause headaches, nausea, fatigue, blurry vision, dizziness, vomiting and disorientation. Pay special attention to the condition and overall usage of your stoves, furnaces, fireplaces, clothes dryers, water heaters and space heaters. Safeguard your home by purchasing a carbon monoxide detector, have your fuel-burning appliances inspected annually, make sure your space heater and gas stove are properly vented and never let your car run continuously in a closed garage.
