3 Safety Tips for the Use of Household Chemicals
Most of us buy numerous types of cleaning supplies off the
grocery store shelves. Ammonia, bleach, and a host of other
chemicals fill our grocery carts, and then our homes. Many
products containing these substances have been used for decades
or longer, yet not everyone knows how to clean with them safely,
which can lead to serious and sometimes dangerous safety
hazards.
If you purchase and use a variety of chemical products to clean
or repair your home, you may want to check out the following
suggestions for keeping your family safe from fumes, burns, and
even explosions that can occur when products are used
inappropriately or incompatibly with each other.
1. Store lethal compounds in a safe, locked area away from pets
and children. Anything that a child or a pet might be tempted to
open and get into must be considered a safety concern,
especially if the product is a known toxin. Dogs, for example,
like the sweet smell of anti-freeze and will lap up any spills
that occur. But this can prove fatal to them, which is why
owners must be responsible in protecting pets from this type of
accident. Kids, too, are drawn to the color of products like
windshield wiper fluid that, to them, resembles a fruit punch
color. But drinking it is harmful and possibly fatal, so it is
imperative that parents keep things like this out of the reach
of young children. Keep the caps tightly secured on the
containers, and lock them in a cupboard with non-flammable items
in the garage or shed.
2. Follow package directions when using chemical products. For
example, when pouring acid down the sink or tub to loosen a
clogged drain, you should wear protective gloves and eye gear in
case the product splashes onto your skin or in your face. Acid
is very dangerous due to its corrosive nature, and must be
handled carefully. The same holds true for products like oven
cleaner. These items, too, should be stored away from milder
cleaners in child-safe cupboards or areas.
3. Never combine products unless the directions tell you to do
so. Bleach and ammonia, for example, form a lethal gas that in
large amounts, usually at the commercial level, can be fatal.
Even at home, however, using bleach to clean a toilet or diaper
pail can result in irritating fumes that could harm someone's
eyes or throat. Use the correct amount of product that is
indicated on the package for the job you have in mind. Too much
can have unexpected negative results.
Don't let children use cleaning products without your
supervision. Train older kids how to use chemicals appropriately
and safely, and then watch to be sure they follow your
directions. Teach them how to clean up afterwards, including
putting things away, mopping up spills, and washing their hands.
Always vent an area well where you are using chemicals that
create fumes. Today's products make cleaning easier than ever
before. But it is still important to follow directions for safe,
reliable usage.