Sunday, March 15, 2009

Home Hazards Awareness

By Jeff Cline

So many people do not realize how many hazards are lurking around the home. You should always be aware, especially when a young child is in the home. Many would be surprised by all the poisons, toxins and hazards that they use every day in the home.

The 2nd leading cause of accidental death is due to accidental poisoning. Ninty-two percent of the reported poison exposure happens in the home according to The American Association of Poison Control Centers. With facts like these we must take precautions.

Many of the poisons and toxins around the home we do not even think about. Poison prevention is very important. Awareness is key. Did you know that mixing certain chemicals can cause poisonous gases and even explosion?

If someone ingests a chemical and they seem to be in good shape call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Keep this number close by the phone. If they are have a serious reaction of course call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.

One poisonous gas that can kill is carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is odorless and can not be seen. It is very important to have gas burning appliances checked yearly for proper operation. You should also install carbon monoxide detectors near every bed room in the home.

You should use child safety locks on cabinets that contain cleaning products, chemicals, medications and cosmetics. And be a label reader! When my now grown son was 3 he picked up furniture oil during the brief moment I set it down to dust and drank it before I had time to realize it. He was fine, but that just goes to show it can happen in the blink of an eye.

Keep garages and storage areas safe. Always clean up spills. Keep products in their original containers. Products like fertilizer, anti freeze, pesticides and swimming pool chemicals can cause serious burns and fires.

Be proactive in and around your home to make sure it is safe for yourself, your children and pets as well as for the people that visit your home. Pay attention to your surroundings and warnings. Never question a chemical always treat it as a poison and read labels. - 22375

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