When you get home from work or school, all you really want to do is relax and unwind. You want your home to be a place that you and your loved ones can feel safe in, right?
Unfortunately, this might not be the case. The Green and Healthy Homes Initiative estimates that 6 million homes have moderate to severe hazards within them, which can increase the risk of injuries and illnesses.
But how do we know what’s dangerous, and how to combat against these risks? Here is a list of the 4 most commonly overlooked household hazards.
Mold
Fungal species that grow in damp and humid environments, whether indoors or outdoors, is referred to as mold. If you don’t know where to look, you may be growing hazardous mold within your home without even realizing it! Mold can be found around bathrooms, basements, sinks, under wallpaper or carpet, or anywhere that has the risk of becoming wet and not well-insulated. Mold can cause moderate to severe respiratory issues or allergic reactions.
You can scrub mold with soap or water to get rid of it, making sure to wear protective gear so the mold doesn’t come in contact with the skin. If your problem is too big, you can call a professional to help remove it for you anywhere in the United States. With the best mold removal team in New York, or a local service in your neighborhood, you can rid your home of this risk and prevent it in the future as well.
Pests
Pests are a common household problem, but you might underestimate their effect on our health. Common pests include:
- Mice and rats, which leave urine and droppings behind that can cause allergic reactions in humans.
- Dust mites, which infest bedding, furniture, and carpets all around the home.
- Fleas, which bite and irritate the human and animal skin
- Cockroaches, which can contaminate food and look all-around disgusting!
This list is not exhaustive, but any pest like these can be detrimental to any person’s health. All of these risks can be reduced if you learn to properly store food and drinks, and do not leave any dishes in the sink overnight. You can also find appropriate traps and sprays for all different kinds of pests according to your situation.
Radon
Radon is an extremely dangerous chemical substance that can’t be seen or smelled. It’s caused by the natural decay of uranium, which can be found in essentially all soils. The EPA estimates that 1 out of 15 homes are above their established level of concern for radon levels. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers.
Making sure your home is properly ventilated is a great way to lower your radon levels. When fixing pipes, cracks in the foundation of your home, or cracks in your walls, you can hire a contractor that specializes in detecting radon. They can help you pick the right treatment method and ensure a lower risk of radon levels in your household.
Fire
Fire can be caused by any number of things in the home, from smoking to cooking. This is why the US Fire Administration recommends that you have a smoke detector on every level of your home. You should test your smoke detector batteries at least once a month, change the batteries every year, and always have a fire escape plan in case of emergency.
How to Prevent These Hazards?
There are many different household risks that people do not take into consideration often enough. Keeping your home safe should be your number one priority so that you and your family don’t fall prey to illness and injury. With planning and preparation, and a quick call to your local anti-mold, pest, or inspection service, any of these hazards can be easily fixable and preventable in the future.