It is almost impossible to to believe that our house could
contain potentially hazardous organisms and materials especially
considering the level of cleanliness that we maintain. Sometimes, the most
dangerous things around us are the ones we can’t see. Here are five potentially
harmful problems that threaten a healthy home and tips on how to protect
against them.
These two forms of bacteria infect the intestinal tract and
cause symptoms ranging from diarrhea to life-threatening dehydration. Most
common mode of infection with these organisms in humans is by eating or
handling contaminated raw foods, such as beef, poultry, eggs, fruits, and
vegetables. Salmonella can contaminate the food during butchering, harvesting,
or preparation. Infection with E. coli occurs when one accidentally eats
contaminated foods that were not cooked or cleaned properly.
Solution to Salmonella & E.Coli Problem:
Wash your hands properly before handling the food. Use two
separate cutting boards for fruits/vegetables and for raw meat. Raw meat,
seafood, and poultry should be kept separately from other refrigerated foods.
Clean with hot soapy water all utensils and plates that previously held raw
meat before using again. Cook all meats, especially pork and poultry, to safe
temperatures.
2. Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide is a flavorless and odorless gas that gives
no warning before it can make you very sick (think flu-like symptoms) or even
kill you. This “silent” killer kills approximately 500 people every year.
Contamination usually occurs when an organic fuel is burned without proper
ventilation. Common sources of carbon monoxide include kerosene and gas space
heaters, gas water heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, automobile exhaust, and
tobacco smoke.
Solution to Carbon Monoxide
Have your heating system, water heater, and other coal, oil,
or gas appliances serviced by a qualified technician every year. Carbon
monoxide detector should be installed in your home. Never heat your house with
a gas oven or use a gasoline-powered or coal-burning device inside your home.
3. Lead
Serious health problems such as measurable changes in mental
development and behavior, nerve disorders and other ailments have been
associated with exposure to this highly toxic metal. Since 1978 lead has been
minimized or eliminated from consumer products by regulatory standards
but it still remains in homes and other places. The major sources of lead
exposure include lead-based paints in older homes, household dust, drinking
water (if you have lead pipes), and contaminated soil.
Solution to Lead in the House
You must test your home and water for presence of lead, especially
if its structure was built before 1978. Presence of lead can be tested by using
a home lead test kit, by consultation with an environmental laboratory or
organization, or by hiring a licensed risk assessor. Lead paint can be removed by a certified lead paint removal
company. Hot tap water from lead pipes should never be used for drinking or
making baby formula as hot water causes more lead to seep from the pipes. Most
importantly get your child tested for lead.
4. Mold
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| Removing Mold |
Molds are microscopic living organisms, which grow where
moisture, oxygen, and organic materials are present. Mold can be easily spotted
(unless it is under carpets or in walls) except the tiny spores in the air.
Exposure to their spores can cause nasal and sinus congestion, chronic cough,
and eye irritation. They may also trigger asthma attacks and lung infections
among individuals with chronic respiratory disease. Molds can be found in
practically any damp area in your house with poor ventilation.
Solution to Mold in the House
Mold should be removed with a non-ammonia cleaner or
dishwashing soap and water. Protect yourself, while removing mold by wearing
gloves, long sleeves, pants, eye protectors, and a respirator. After cleaning
the mold from floors remaining mold spores in the air should be cleaned with
the help of a HEPA (high efficiency particulate absorbing) vacuum or air
cleaner. For large areas, hire a professional cleaner. Discard carpet, drywall,
insulation, and other items if they have been wet for more than two days.
5. Pesticides
Few of the pesticides that could be in your home include
insect repellent weed killers, flea and tick shampoo, roach sprays
and baits. Other “hidden” dangerous chemicals can be found in products
such as mothballs, wallpaper, and pressure treated wood. Pesticides can be
dangerous to your health if used in the wrong way or stored improperly.
Pesticides can cause nerve damage, breathing problems, and more. One of
the leading causes of childhood poisonings are household pesticides.
Solution to Pesticides
Always read and follow instructions on the label
before using pesticides. All household pesticides must be kept
locked in a cabinet and out of reach of children. Avoid direct exposure while
using pesticides, and never eat or drink around them. Wash your hands
thoroughly after working with a pesticide.
Source : http://researchonmedical.com
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