Is Your Home Safe?

As a handyman I try to provide my clients with tips about potential hidden home hazards. It is important for a homeowner to know their home and how to keep it safe.

There is no place like home, but in reality-your house may not be as safe as you would like to believe. From inhaling toxic fumes to fire hazards, common household items could actually be hidden home hazards. But, the vast majority of tragic occurrences from dangers in the home, such as death or injury, are entirely preventable.

Dryer Vent: Lint building up in a dryer vent is an extreme fire hazard. A dryer should not be operated without a lint filer. But even with one, some lint sticks and can still build up, with the dryer’s hot air causing it to catch on fire. It is important for vents to be cleaned out frequently, and if the vent is too long, a professional should be hired to thoroughly clean it as needed. If your dryer is running slower than usual, or barely drying during a cycle, it probably is time to check and clean the vent.

Environmental Dangers: Household pollutants, such as these environmental hazards, can be especially dangerous when infiltrated in the home:
Mold- Mold is a type of fungi that can grow in damp or wet areas of the home. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints. Frequent disinfecting of surfaces and reducing indoor humidity will help minimize mold.
Radon- The second leading cause of lung cancer, radon is an odorless, colorless gas that seeps into homes from small spaces and cracks. Doing a home test is the only way to determine if there are dangerous levels of radon.
Lead- If your home was built before 1980, there is a chance that lead paint could be in it. The particles from the paint can be inhaled as it deteriorates. But there are many ways in which individuals are exposed to lead including through air, drinking water, food, contaminated soil, and dust. Hire a professional to examine any potential lead products.
Asbestos- A mineral fiber that is commonly found in older homes was used in a variety of building construction materials for insulation and as a fire-retardant. The only way to tell if an object contains asbestos by looking at it is if the material is labeled.

Carbon Monoxide: Dubbed as the “secret home killer”, this odorless gas can build up to dangerous levels in a home without anyone knowing. The best defense is to have all appliances properly checked out, never leave a car running in a garage, and to purchase a CO Monitor. Don’t forget to test the monitor regularly.

Heating System: Even during the half of the year when home heating systems are not in use, including the heater, pipes, ducts, and chimney, they still pose a threat. Check out pilot lights, any frayed wires, and a professional inspection should be done before it is turned on in the fall. Chimney’s should be cleaned of debris and soot, and never blocked. Any blockage can cause smoke or gases to be pushed into the home.

Electrical: In a typical year, the U.S. Fire Administration estimates that electrical problems in the home can account for 67,800 fires and $868 million dollars in property loss damage. Wires, outlets, cords, plugs, and lightbulbs should all be thoroughly examined. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI’s) can help prevent electrocution. When a GFCI senses current leakage in an electrical circuit, it assumes a ground fault has occurred. It then interrupts power fast enough to help prevent serious injury from electrical shock.

The above suggestions may require professional assistance from your local handyman to ensure proper installation.