HAZARDS IN THE HOME

Environmental Hazard• Radon• Asbestos• Lead• Hazardous Waste• Carbon Monoxide

RadonRadon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that occurs worldwide in the environment as a byproduct of the natural decay of uranium present in the earth.

Sources:• Soil - small spaces and openings, such as cracks in concrete,

floor drains, sump pump openings, and wall/floor joints in basements

• Ground Water

Solution:• Over the counter test kit• Special filter system (water)

AsbestosAsbestos is a fibrous material found in rocks and soil throughout the world. Asbestos has been used in architectural and construction applications because it is a strong, durable fire retardant, and an efficient insulator.

Sources:• Vinyl flooring materials; ceiling tiles; exterior roofing; mixed

with other materials and troweled or sprayed around pipes, ducts, and beams; in patching compounds or textured paints; and in door gaskets on stoves, furnaces, and ovens

Solution:• Hire a qualified professional

LeadLead is a metallic element found worldwide in rocks and soils. Airborne lead enters the body when an individual breathes lead particles or swallows lead dust.

Sources:• Drinking water, in paint used to decorate the interior or

exterior of a home, in the dust within a home, and in soil around the home.

Solution:• Professional test

Hazardous WasteHazardous wastes are those waste products that could pose short- or long-term danger to personal health or the environment if they are not properly disposed of or managed.

Source:• Soil and Water

Solution:• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Carbon MonoxideCarbon monoxide (CO) is a subtle yet dangerous threat because the gas is colorless, odorless and tasteless. CO is produced when any fuel does not burn completely because of insufficient oxygen.

Source:• Furnace or boiler, gas or fuel-oil water heater, gas or wood

fireplace, gas kitchen range, and plugged, rusted, disconnected, or defective chimneys or vents.

Solution:• Proper ventilation• CO alarm

Fire Safety• Do not plug too many appliances into an electrical outlet. • Make sure that combustibles are not too close to heaters, stoves and fireplaces. • Never smoke in bed or overstuffed furniture, or leaving a burning cigarette in an ashtray. • Do not use damaged or frayed electrical cords or extension cords. • Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children. • Teach your children about the dangers of playing with fire. • Never use extension cords with heating or air conditioning equipment. • Purchase smoke alarms and fire extinguishers for each floor of your home.

Household Products

Mold and MoistureMolds are usually not a problem indoors, unless mold spores land on a wet or damp spot and begin growing. Molds have the potential to cause health problems. Molds produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances.

Solution:• Control moisture• Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and

dry completely• Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and

carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy