Category Archives: Home Safety Products

General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

FORECLOSED HOMES – “GREEN POOLS”

Once, it was thought that someone who lived in a $500,000 or $1,000,000 home had the world on a string.  But for many, that dream has become a nightmare.  Because of the declining economy of the past several years, foreclosed homes are dotting the streets all over the country…. modest homes or million dollar ones.  Persons who are facing foreclosure on their homes are not as concerned with the upkeep of the house when they know they won’t be there much longer.

One of the horrible realities of the more exclusive homes is the condition of the swimming pools, where families once played.  They have turned from turquoise blue to emerald green, or “green pools”, which are actually not so emerald, but a dark, murky green.  These pools are breeding grounds for millions of mosquitoes, which carry the West Nile virus, posing a health hazard for neighbors.

According to an ABC News report, Chris Miller, a biologist with Contra Costa Mosquito Vector and Control District in California, is in control of breeding tiny, cannibalistic fish – Gambuzia Affinis.  No larger than 2 ½”, they eat mosquitoes.  He says an adult female can eat up to 500 mosquitoes a day.  Bags of 150 fish are sent out with each pool crew dispatched to inspect green pools in his district.

These popular little fish are being used across the country to help with the problem of green pools.  After chemical solutions are used to suffocate mosquito larvae, the fish are then released into the water to eat the remaining larvae, gnats, algae and other vegetation. Abandoned pools should not be drained, as the pool walls can crack and cause damage to surrounding ground.  Also, a drained pool can partially fill up with rainwater, thereby creating a hazard to children who might wander into the yard.  The best option is to keep these pools filled and kept clean.

This responsibility should fall on the real estate agent who has taken over the property.  When a home is foreclosed, most times the electricity and water are turned off.  Someone has to see that that doesn’t happen, in order for the property to be maintained.  A well-kept property is much easier to sell than one that has become run down, and a hazard to the entire neighborhood.  There are many other health hazards that abandoned houses present.  As warm weather is here, the issue with the swimming pools has again surfaced, making those who live next to them victims of circumstance.

Eye Protection, General Safety Issues, Hearing Protection, Home Safety Products, Uncategorized

IS YOUR HOME “AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN”?

How closely have you checked your house for hazards?  Since June is “Home Safety Month”, this is an excellent time to remind you of the many chances for you or a loved one to be injured in your very own home.  According to the Home Safety Council, making a checklist is a good way to start.

Going room by room, you will be surprised at what’s lurking….. even your computer!  Yes, we said your computer.

New research has shown that more people are showing up in emergency rooms with computer-related injuries, according to Jennifer Thomas, reporter for HealthDay.

From 1994 to 2006, there was an increase in injuries of 732 per cent nationwide from 1,300 per year to 9,300 per year of persons tripping over computer wires or getting hit by falling equipment. Ms. Thomas reports that a study published in the online issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, stated that more and more people are using computers, and over a 13-year period, around 78,000 people had computer-related injuries.  The report suggests that computers should be kept on a wide work surface to ensure they won’t tip over, and cords need to be away from walking areas.  The study revealed that children under the age of 5 had the highest injury rate, with the leading cause of injury tripping or falling over computer equipment.

Here are some other areas you need to add to your checklist:

  • Bathroom:  For chemicals or poisons.  Also, are there mats on the floor so there’s no slipping?  Don’t leave medicines in drawers that are within reach of children.
  • Kitchen:  Also check for poisons, chemicals, cleaning solutions that are accessible to children.  Fire extinguisher.  Do you have one and know how to use it?
  • Stairways: Be sure rails are in good shape.  Is the area well lighted?  Check for loose carpet.  Also have safety gates installed at foot and top of stairs if there are toddlers in the home.
  • Living Room/Den/Dining Room: Be sure furniture is tip-proof.  Adults, as well as children, have been hurt by furniture that tips over.
  • Hallways: How often do you check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors?  (A good rule of thumb is every spring and fall when the time changes.)
  • Windows:  In warm weather, be sure you have strong window screens.  Also, remember that cords from mini-blinds have been known to cause injury and death to small children.  Adjust them so there are no loops that might get into the wrong hands.
  • Outside:  Again, don’t leave chemicals or pesticides where pets or children will find them.

Keep your home clutter-free.  Chances are better that no one will get hurt if there’s no danger of tripping.  Take the time to look around to see just how many ways there are for you to keep your “Home Sweet Home” safer!

General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

HOW SAFE ARE YOUR WINDOWS?

This may sound odd, but when it comes to child safety, the type of window coverings you select may play an important part in keeping your little ones safe.

One of the many tasks we have when we buy a new home or move into an apartment is choosing window treatments.  Whether we have children, grandchildren, or an occasional toddler visit our home, we must be aware of certain hazards that are present.  If you select blinds to cover your windows, be sure they are the new type of cordless ones.
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that on the average, once every two weeks, a toddler or infant dies from strangulation from window blind cords.  Blinds made prior to 2001 do not meet child safety regulations.
Little ones love to climb up to look out of the window, and if they slip and fall, they could become entangled in the cords.  Infants in cribs that are placed too near a window may grab a cord, place it in their mouth, and get it wrapped around their neck.
Here are some actions you may take to ensure safety regarding this hazard:

  • Never have furniture near dangling cords in windows.
  • Buy new cordless window blinds.
  • Consider other window treatments, such as shutters or curtains.
  • If you have older blinds, get retrofit kits to make them safe.
  • Never place cribs near windows.
  • Keep the child away from blind cords.

If you want to adjust the existing blind cords that you now own, the USCPSC recommends eliminating loops on 2-corded horizontal blinds by cutting the cord above the end tassel (looks like a small wood or plastic thimble).  Remove equalizer buckle and add new tassels for each cord, or replace it with a safety break-away tassel.  Do not retie the cords in a knot, as that only recreates a new loop.  Or, you can lower the blind all the way, cut cords as close to top of blind as possible and then re-install tassels.  Parents can reach, but the tots cannot!  Otherwise, use old-fashioned cord cleats, which are available at most window covering stores.

Recently, we learned of a tragic accident involving some type of cord hanging from a treadmill.  A little four-year old girl died after becoming strangled by this cord.  So, parents, you can’t be too careful when it comes to toddlers’ safety.

The Window Covering Safety Council provides free retrofit kits: cord stops, tassels, and tie-down devices.

Their toll-free number is 800-506-4636.  You can contact them at their website or give them a call for more information.

Home Safety Products, Respiratory Safety, Uncategorized, Weather Protection

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM WILDFIRE HAZARDS

The recent Texas and Oklahoma fires and their smoke created several health dangers, including serious respiratory ailments.  Smoke from wildfires contains a mixture of fine particles and gases from burning trees and plant materials.  Smoke irritates eyes, the respiratory system, and can aggravate heart and lung disease.

Protective actions are:

  • Limit exposure to smoke,
  • Pay attention to air quality reports,
  • Consult your physician if you have asthma or lung disease.

Other health problems include: coughing, scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, chest pain, shortness of breath, headaches, runny nose, and stinging eyes.  At risk are older persons, especially those with heart and lung problems, and children, who breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults, and are outdoors more frequently.

It is advised that you do not depend on the paper dust masks commonly found at hardware stores, which are designed to trap large particles.  Particulate respirators (N95) are “air purifying respirators” because they clean particles out the air as you breathe, and offer more protection, if properly worn.
Chemical cartridge/gas mask respirator, powered air purifying and self-controlled breathing apparatus are more sophisticated types of respirators.  SCBA is the respirator used by most firefighters, which use their own air tank to supply fresh air.

If you plan to build/remodel your home located in a wild land area, be aware there is a very real threat of wildfires.  Protecting your home is your responsibility.  You need to know the fire resistance of your home, topography of your property, and nearby vegetation.  FEMA suggests that you consult your local fire department, emergency management office, forestry service for information about fire laws, building codes and protective measures.  You should be familiar with these codes and weed abatement ordinances for structures built near wooded surroundings.

Everyone living in these areas should know what their community’s ability to respond to wildfires will be, and plan several escape routes in case roads become blocked.  Every person should be ready at all times to evacuate in an emergency.

Source: US Dept of Health & Human Services
CDC
FEMA

General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

SPRING CLEANING

With warm weather almost here, duty calls most of us to get in the mood to do a little spring cleaning around the house.  We may be inspired to even do a little spring cleaning around the office or workplace, as well.

There are some things to remember to do outside the house.  Windows and doors need to be checked to ensure that they close properly, and downspouts and gutters should be washed out.  If there’s a build up of mildew and fungus on the deck, use a pressure washer on your water hose to spray it away.  New filters for the air conditioner should be in place for that first burst of warm air.

Getting organized is the best way to undertake any project.  De-clutter your home or office.  Now is a good time to get rid of things you haven’t used in a while, or don’t intend to use again.  A good rule of thumb is: if you haven’t used it or worn it in 2 years, get rid of it!

While we are on the subject of cleaning, however, we need to caution you to be aware of using cleaning products that stir up allergies or asthma.  Also, sometimes a new piece of furniture, carpet, or other new household items contain chemicals that can aggravate allergies.

Formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (voc’s) are chemicals that evaporate at room temperature.  Furniture cleaning solvents, paints, even particle board or pressed wood may contain voc’s.  Keep your home ventilated well and their fumes will dissipate in a few days.  When buying paints, choose the one with the lowest voc number.

You will be better off when you are cleaning to use fragrance-free products.  Don’t close yourself off in a bathroom while using bleach or ammonia for cleaning, it can be very noxious.  Non-toxic cleaners such as borax or baking soda clean and deodorize, and can be bought at most grocery stores.

Washing soda can be used to remove stains and cut grease.  Washing soda—sodium carbonate—is in the same family as baking soda, but has been processed differently. It is much more caustic/alkaline, with a pH of 11, and while it doesn’t give off harmful fumes, you do need to wear rubber gloves. It is found in the laundry section of most supermarkets. Arm & Hammer is one brand of washing soda.

Sodium carbonate and sodium perborate ( an alternative to bleach) can also be purchased at chemical supply houses.  White vinegar cuts grease.  Hydrogen peroxide is another bleach alternative.  One other tip: never mix bleach with any household chemicals, especially ammonia.

Here are some ingredients for homemade cleaners that will ensure your success:

  • Drains:  ½ c. baking soda with ½ c. salt – pour down drain, follow with 2 c. boiling water, and let sit overnight.
  • Bathtubs: ½ c. baking soda with white vinegar, make a paste.
  • Ovens: ½ c. baking soda with ¼ c. salt, add enough water to make a paste.

Another cleaning challenge – mold!  If there is a place larger than 3’ x 3’, turn to an expert.  If you don’t know what you are doing, you can release mold into the air.  The EPA recommends using rubber gloves, (discard them after use), goggles without air holes, and N95 or higher filter masks.  Again, if you have doubts, let professionals handle it.

You’ll breathe easier and save money by using simple cleaning combinations. Clean safely!

Source:HGTV

First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

DON’T GET BURNED!

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Nothing hurts worse than a burn, no matter how small it is.  Whether you cook in a restaurant, work around electricity, or do many other jobs that involve the possibility of getting burned, it is important most of all to avoid such an accident, but in the event that it happens, know how to render first aid.  OSHA requires that companies must provide a person or persons adequately trained in first aid for work sites that are not in near proximity to a clinic, infirmary or hospital.  Companies should also furnish the proper first aid supplies and first aid training for all types of emergencies.

Properly trained workers are able to assess the severity of the burn, and know if it is thermal, electrical, or chemical.  Simple first aid is usually enough to treat first and some second degree burns.  However, in more serious burns, such as third degree burns, the first responder should know how to care for them until medical assistance arrives.

  • First-degree burns are burns on the first layer of skin, and easily identifiable.  They are usually minor, more uncomfortable than serious.  In treating first or second degree burns, use cold water or cool compresses to reduce swelling, and cover with clean, dry dressing.   Don’t use ice, lotion, or ointment.  The use of butter or ointments may prevent healing, and ice can further damage the skin.
  • Second-degree burns have reddening of the skin and possible blistering.  Over-the-counter pain medications may be given.
  • Third-degree burns are deeper, where the skin is charred, and the tissue underneath may appear white. Deeper burns are serious and the risk of infection is increased.   Call emergency personnel immediately, lay the person down, and elevate severely burned limbs.  Cut away clothing if necessary, but do not try to remove clothing that is stuck to the burn.

Our homes are not immune to burn-related accidents, either, so it is important that we all exercise caution when cooking, preparing delicious foods on the grill, or doing many other chores that involve heat.  Keep a first aid kit in your home and know where one is at your workplace.  Prevention and preparedness are the keys to staying safe from misfortune.

OSHA

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products, Respiratory Safety, Weather Protection

MT REDOUBT – WILL IT, OR WON’T IT

Scientists at the Alaska Volcano Observatory have been closely watching Mt. Redoubt, an active volcano in the largely volcanic Aleutian Range, since the end of January, when geologists recorded a sharp rise in earthquake activity.  Volcanoes can shoot ash 30,000 to 50,000’ high, and depending on wind and velocity, be carried more than 100 miles away.   The threat level (Aviation Hazard Color Codes) has been raised from yellow to orange, which means there is heightened unrest with an increased likelihood of eruption, or volcanic eruption under way with no ash or minor ash emission.  Anchorage is the nearest large city to Mt Redoubt.  Falling ash and ash flows carry toxins into rivers and lakes.  Glass particles in ash can also cause damage to vehicles.

Citizens of Alaska are not unfamiliar with these occurrences, and usually have advance warning in order to be prepared for the eruption of a volcano.  These volcanoes are different from the types of those in Hawaii, as they produce molten lava.  Ash fall from the Alaska volcanoes are tiny parts of rock and glass, which can cause severe injury to breathing passageways, eyes, nose, and open wounds.

As with any natural occurrence, we encourage persons in the area to be prepared the best way possible, by:

  • Staying inside as much as possible
  • Covering face with wet cloths, if masks unavailable
  • Keeping fresh supplies on hand, i.e., water, food
  • Closing windows and vents to chimneys.

Following most eruptions, the possibility of short-term minor discomforts such as nasal and throat irritation, coughing, wheezing, uncomfortable breathing, skin irritations, and painful itchy eyes are typical results, rather than more serious health problems.  However, persons who suffer from respiratory ailments should take extra precautions to be prepared.

Eye Protection, First Aid Safety, General Safety Issues, Hand Protection, Head Protection, Home Safety Products, Uncategorized

Think Safety on Purpose

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Below is a testimonial from a friend who, like most of us, did not consider the dangers of doing even normal household and maintenance chores without protection.  I know I’ve trimmed trees and hedges dozens of times without using protection.  I think now I will reconsider!

Several years ago I stuck a mulberry branch stob into my right eye.  I had laser surgery and was not wearing glasses, the first form of eye protection.  My accident caused me to endure two additional surgeries and an extra year of treatment.  Since then, and due to my unfortunate experience, I wear safety goggles during all my tree trimming yard work.  They are not an inconvenience, and are much easier to deal with than almost blinding yourself.

Bill La Barr

United Methodist Church

Home Safety Products, Uncategorized

INVISIBLE DANGER CARBON MONOXIDE

Carbon Monoxide is an invisible, tasteless, odorless gas that can cause illness or death in minutes, because people are unaware that they are breathing it.  The poisonous fumes come from improperly operated generators, gas stoves, lanterns, charcoal grills, and other gasoline- powered tools.

  • Generators should be operated at least ten feet away from the house/building in a well-ventilated area.
  • Never use gas ranges or gas ovens to heat your home.
  • Cars should never be run with the garage door closed.
  • Use caution with all CO producing devices.
  • Install a Carbon Monoxide detector in your home; check the batteries annually.
  • Be sure all heating systems in your home/building operate correctly.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning are drowsiness, headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion.  If someone has these symptoms, move them to a well-ventilated area outdoors and get immediate medical attention.  Providing them with 100 per cent oxygen through an oxygen mask is the first priority.

It is vital to public health to educate people on the proper installment and safe operation of heaters, appliances, fireplaces, and other tools operated by gasoline.  Being aware of the dangers of this type of poisoning is of the utmost importance.

Texas DSHS

General Safety Issues, Home Safety Products

FIREPLACE SAFETY

There’s nothing better than relaxing in front of a cozy fire after the day’s work ends, or on cold days!  Gas and wood burning fireplaces are designed to furnish years of comfort and leisure.  However, there are several things to consider that allow your fireplace the chance to work properly.

Wood burning fireplaces require preventive maintenance, such as being inspected and cleaned annually.  Chimney sweeps inspect and clean the chimney as necessary by removing creosote and leaves, branches, or nests.

Common sense tips on use of a wood fireplace include:

  • Make sure area around fireplace is clear of potentially flammable materials, i.e., newspapers, books and furniture.  A good rule of thumb is two feet away.
  • Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Use a fireplace grate.
  • Clean out ashes from previous fires.  Open the damper.
  • Do not leave smoking embers unattended.
  • Never put wrapping paper, plastic items, or other things in the fire that could create toxic chemicals in the smoke.
  • Be careful handling partially burning wood, use proper fireplace tools.
  • Be sure the fire is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.

If you have a gas fireplace, remember:

  • Clean the glass.
  • Check the batteries in the carbon monoxide detector.
  • Be sure the vents are able to do their job and are not obstructed.
  • The fan and related air circulation passages must be kept clean.
  • Adjust millivolt output.

All gas fireplaces need to be installed by qualified technicians.  This is essential to the proper performance and safety of a hearth product and its venting system.  Serious consequences can occur if a hearth creation doesn’t do its job correctly.

Without proper care and maintenance, fireplaces can cause disastrous results.  Fire departments and businesses that sell fireplaces can help answer any questions you may have, ensuring the safety of your home and family, and letting you enjoy the warm pleasure a fireplace brings.