Tag: hazards

Six home hazards and how to prevent them

Six home hazards and how to prevent them

If you’re thinking of renting, building, buying or renovating a home, the first thing you want to do is check for hazards. There are many things inside a house that be extremely dangerous and even fatal. By learning more about them, you can watch for the signs and create a safer environment.

Want to learn more? Then keep on reading. Below, we’re going to look at six of the most common home hazards and how you can prevent them from occurring.

Illustration of mouldcredit

Mould

Mould is a type of fungus that thrives on moisture. It travels and reproduces with lightweight spores and can multiply rapidly. There are many types of mould, and while some are harmless, others can be extremely dangerous. It’s not always easy to prevent it from growing, but by ensuring that your plumbing is secure, you can reduce it. If you have an existing problem, consider hiring a professional that can remove it in the safest way possible.

Illustration of flames

Fires

In 2019, the US Fire Department responded to a home fire every 93 seconds. They’re one of the most dangerous hazards; however, you can minimize their risk by following the right safety tips. Some things to remember include:

  • Testing your smoke alarm
  • Inspecting heating sources
  • Properly storing flammable products
  • Using candles safely
  • Cooking with caution

Alongside all of this, you want to make sure that your home is in good electrical condition. Speak to the right professionals about getting a panel upgrade or replacement just to be safe.

Carbon monoxide iconcredit

Carbon monoxide

An odourless and colourless gas, carbon monoxide is extremely deadly. It comes from appliances that use fossil fuels. When an individual breathes it in, they often experience flu-like symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, vomiting, and weakness. To prevent poisoning from occurring, regularly check your heating appliances and install an alarm system.

Danger asbestos illustration

Asbestos

Asbestos is a material that was often used in older homes due to its heat-resistant properties. However, it is extremely hazardous and is known to cause cancers and other diseases. If you own a home that is built before the 1980s, it’s essential that you get it tested by the right professionals. If found, they’ll remove it safely so that you can live in your home free of worry.

No pests iconcredit

Pests

Pests can be irritating; however, they also come with other problems. Certain types such as woodworm and termites can cause severe structural damage to your property, which then leads to other issues. Alongside this, mice can spread terrible diseases, cause allergies and chew through wiring within your wall. A pest inspector can help treat your home to prevent them from entering and can also get rid of any pre-existing infestations. You may also want to check out these natural bug remedies for even more protection!

Falls danger sign

Falls

While falls aren’t a hazard on their own, certain things around the house can lead to them. In fact, it’s the most common cause of household injuries in the US. To prevent them from occurring, make sure to cover slippery surfaces, keep the floor clean and stabilise any stairs. By being vigilant, you can remain safe.

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5 toxic substances to look out for in your home

5 toxic substances to look out for in your home | H is for Home

Although many of us don’t realise it, homes are often full of potentially toxic substances. In many cases, there can be easy steps to prevent these substances from doing harm. Here are just five of the most dangerous substances of which to be wary.

Illustration of a paint tin with green-handled paint brush

Lead

Lead was once a common ingredient in many household paints until people realised that it was highly toxic. Ingesting lead can lead to kidney failure, brain damage and, in serious cases, death. Peeling paint is the biggest danger – especially if you have infants or pets that are most likely to put flakes in their mouth. The sale of lead paint has been banned in most places around the world, however many homes are thought to still have lead paint on their walls. You can test for lead using a lead test kit. There are lead removal companies that can help to remove this substance for you.

Red 'toxic substance' stamp illustration

VOCs

Whilst all modern paints are lead-free, many still contain other toxic chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are given off as vapours primarily when paint is still wet, however they can continue to be released for years after. Whilst they aren’t as much of a hazard as lead, they’ve been linked to headaches and dizziness. Long-term exposure could even result in an added risk of cancer. There are many low VOC paints that don’t emit these harmful vapours – you should opt for these where possible.

Red & yellow 'Danger Abestos' warning sign

Asbestos

Asbestos was once a commonly used construction material heralded for its fire-proof and insulating qualities. Sadly, this miracle material was found to be highly dangerous when damaged – microscopic particles of asbestos can be released into the air and breathed in, which can cause major irritation to the lungs. Asbestos has been directly linked to a lung cancer called mesothelioma, as well as causing CPD in many people. If you suspect you have asbestos in your home, you should call a professional asbestos removal team to deal with it.

cartoon illustration of a pink & purple harmful particle

Urea formaldehyde

Urea formaldehyde is a chemical that is commonly used as a glue in many pressed wood products. It has been known to give off vapours that can be irritating to the eyes and throat and has been known to bring on asthma attacks. Whilst still used today in many products, it’s usually done so in a careful and controlled manner that prevents the release of vapours. The biggest danger is older pressed wood products – particularly from the 1970s when these products were most popular. You should keep your home well ventilated if you have such products (or get rid of them).

Potential hazards to be found in under-sunk cupboards

Benzene

Benzene is an ingredient emitted by many household products and has been proven to be carcinogenic. Some of the main culprits to look out for are mothballs and air fresheners. Not all mothballs and air fresheners contain this ingredient – in fact, the number that do contain benzene are disappearing – however it’s still an ingredient of which you should be careful. The full name of the ingredient is ‘paradichlorobenzene’ and should be listed on the products ingredients on the packaging.

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5 safety improvements to make in your home

5 safety improvements to make in your home | H is for Home

If it’s one location where we all want to feel safe and secure in, it’s our home. We don’t want to spend extended periods of time in a place where we are likely to be in danger; either caused by ourselves or from others. Here are a number of safety improvements that can be implemented around the home to avoid hazardous situations from occurring.

Stairs with a wooden hand rail against a white painted wall

Affix hand rails

Hand rails and stair banisters are useful if the occupants of a house have mobility issues. If you’re elderly or have physical disabilities you’ll find moving around more straightforward if these are located up stairs, in the bathroom and along corridors and paths.

Black metal fire escape on the exterior of a red brick building

Install a fire escape

If your kitchen is situated in such a way that you have to go through it to safely exit your home, you may need to consider installing a fire escape. For instance, in multi-storey houses, it may entail fitting external metal staircases. If you live in an open-plan flat, it could necessitate investing in a sprinkler system.

Round, white smoke detector on a black background

Fit carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors can be life-saving devices. Every house should be fitted with at least one smoke alarm; one on each floor of your house. If you have a gas fire, wood-burner or multi-fuel stove it is essential to have a carbon monoxide detector fitted. These devices are practical, aren’t expensive to buy and are relatively easy to install.

Opaque white, cone-shaped exterior light

Put in exterior lighting

Having motion sensor lights at the front and rear entrances of your home is a good idea in many aspects. Firstly, when you return home after dark, they’re useful for guiding you up the path or stairs to your entranceway, thereby avoiding slips and trips along the way. Secondly, they help you see to slide your door key into the lock. Most importantly, they help deter opportunistic burglars who may approach your house when it’s in complete darkness.
Video door phone home intercom system

Connect up an intercom system

A recent technological development is the home intercom system. It allows a you to ‘answer’ the front door to visitors – even if you’re not at the property. The appliance connects to your home’s wi-fi network and, with the help of an app that you download to your smart phone, lets you see and converse with friends, delivery drivers, cold callers or anyone else who rings your doorbell. If a potential burglar presses the bell to make sure no one’s home before attempting entry, you could prevent a robbery by pretending to be there.

Are there any safety improvements that you’ve put into action in your home?

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