Avoid These Home Hazards

September 3, 2014- Home safety issues can include issues like termites and faulty wiring, as well as drainage and flooding. Here are 11 of the most common problems:

1. Lead: Lead paint is especially bad for children and pets. Homes built before 1980 may contain this hazardous stuff. Check for lead paint before you move in and especially if you renovate.

2. Indoor air quality: Good indoor air quality reduces the impact of allergies and asthma. Eliminate allergens by opting for hardwood or laminate flooring instead of carpeting. An air-filtration system or new air conditioner can help control allergens, too.

3. Radon watch: This radioactive gas seeps in through cracks in your foundation. Radon can cause lung cancer, so it’s important to mitigate it. Sealing cracks in the foundation is one important step.

4. Rising water: If your home is in a flood-prone region, make certain you have a sump pump in good working order to deal with excess water.

5. Termites: Hire a professional to regularly inspect for termites. Termites love damp wood, so repair indoor leaks immediately.

6. Electrical fires: Most electrical fires result from faulty outlets or old wiring. Protect your home by replacing faulty wiring and outlets, and installing an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI).

7. Carbon monoxide: This toxic gas is the No. 1 cause of poisoning deaths in the US, but such tragedies can be prevented by installing a CO detector. Ventilate fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, water heaters, ovens and dryers to prevent CO buildup.

8. Asbestos: Asbestos can still be found in older homes. But if it’s not damaged or disturbed, asbestos is not likely to pose a health risk.

9. Mold: Hazardous to your health, mold is a problem that should be tackled early, as soon as it’s discovered. Prevent both visible and undetectable mold by keeping moisture levels low and quickly drying up standing water. Once mold spreads, you’ll need to act quickly to remove it completely.

10. Falls: Remove tripping hazards from hallways, stairs, and walkways. Avoid standing on a chair, table or other surface to tackle a quick job.

11. Gas leaks: A gas leak can pose serious risk, whether the leak is detected or not. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the house immediately and contact your gas provider.

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Carnow Conibear and Associates is a demonstrated leader in the occupational and environmental health professions since 1975. To find out more, click here or call us at (800) 860-4486.