Every home has both hidden and exposed dangers. You don’t have to stress over them, but you should be aware of them. Knowing that these hazards exist will help you look out for them and remove them. You can remedy or remove all the types of home health hazards on this list.
Button Batteries
You’ll find these tiny batteries in greeting cards, key fobs, toys, and other electronics. They pose a choking hazard for small children. Kids also tend to stick them in their nose and ears, which makes for a tricky extraction. If swallowed, the battery can cause an alkaline injury, or burn, to the stomach. As they erode, they can cause respiratory, hearing, and other long-term issues.
Detergent Pods
A recent Internet fad had kids biting into detergent pods. While it may look fun to record yourself eating detergent pods, they pose a serious health risk. When the pods get wet, they start to erode and release the toxic detergent. A small child with wet hands won’t know the liquid is hazardous and could ingest it. Keep them far away from a child’s reach.
Mold
The spores that cause mold are everywhere. They drift through the air, through open windows, and into the home. If the spores find a cool, damp place, they will turn into mold and spread. Mold in the home can cause respiratory problems, headaches, and nosebleeds. There’s an ongoing debate over so called “toxic black mold” and whether or not it’s dangerous. Err on the side of caution, and get any mold removed.
Broken Smoke Alarm
There should be a smoke detector on every level of your home. Check your smoke and fire alarms every six months to make sure they work properly. A broken smoke alarm doesn’t do anyone much good, as it can’t alert you to fire.
Window Covering Cords
Cords that hang from window blinds or curtains seem harmless, but they pose a risk for children. Every year, kids get tangled up in the dangling cords and end up choking themselves. The best thing to do is shorten the cord so that it can’t be reached. Wrap it up and secure it with a twist-tie or rubber band.