subject: A Diy Radon Gas Testing Kit Is One Step Toward A Healthier, Safer Home [print this page] Stop to think about how much time is spent indoors and it becomes clear why indoor air quality and a healthy, safe environment are important, especially when there are older adults or young children in the home.
Even if a home needs big projects to remove health hazards, there are many small, simple improvements like the ones listed here that are a good start in the right direction, and these can be done today.
1.Replace any dead or dying batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, or install new alarms if the home does not already have them.
2.Buy a DIY radon gas testing kit from the local hardware or home improvement store to find out if the levels are too high. The cancer-causing, radioactive gas cannot be seen, smelled or tasted. High levels of radon can be drastically reduced with a radon abatement system.
3.Set the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent burns and scalding.
4.Leave the bathroom fan on for 15 minutes after showering to reduce condensation, hinder mold and mildew growth and prevent the need for chemical cleaning agents.
5.Switch out the heating and cooling unit's air filter to improve indoor air quality. Clean filters catch irritants like dust, mold spores, pet dander and pollen. HVAC engineers recommend homeowners use a high-quality filter with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value no higher than 12.
6.Fix unsafe wiring and fire hazards like frayed cords, loose electrical sockets and covered extension cords.
7.Properly secure dangerous chemicals, including strong cleaners, household hazardous materials, medications and pesticides.
8.Make repairs to areas that are fall hazards, such as the broken handrail on the stairs or grab bar in the bathroom, loose stairs and burnt-out light bulbs.
9.Mix up the cleaning routine and use a solution of 10 percent vinegar in water for cleaning surfaces like countertops, tables and refrigerator door handles. The solution is just as effective at killing bacteria, and it does it without harsh chemicals.
10.Purge the home of toxic cleaning products and reach for ones that are petroleum-free, biodegradable and phosphate-free. Limit the use of products that contain chlorine or ammonia, or consider getting rid of them altogether.
11.Look for alternatives to products containing volatile organic compounds, which are emitted as gases from thousands of common household items and may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. Use products with no VOCs as much as possible, which may also be referred to as low odor or carcinogen-free. Air out common sources of VOCs like new furniture, furnishings and rugs before bringing them into the house.
12.Check building materials in the home for lead paint and asbestos, which can be stirred up during repairs, maintenance or renovations like ceiling cleaning or prepping for repainting.
Avoid the mistake of putting off all health and safety improvements like some homeowners do because their homes need major projects done. Small changes add up and often motivate the person to continue on the quest to create better living environments and indoor air quality.
