A home should keep its occupants safe and sound, so it’s important to know about and eliminate risks. Health hazards like mold and radon can make a home unsafe and cause health problems. Follow these 4 tips for a healthy and safe home to minimize dangers and improve the health of your family members.
Fire Preparedness for a Healthy and Safe Home
Be sure to install a smoke alarm in each bedroom and on each floor of a house, including the attic and basement. Test these detectors monthly, whether wired or battery-powered, to make sure they are in good working order. Keep a multipurpose fire extinguisher on hand.
When using one, remember the acronym PASS, which stands for pulling the pin, aiming at the fire’s base, squeezing the handle, and sweeping from one side to the other at the fire’s base until it is extinguished. If a fire does not go out quickly, leave the home immediately and call 911.
Radon Testing for a Healthy and Safe Home
Roughly one in 15 homes have a level of radon that is dangerously high. Radon is a radioactive gas that is released when uranium decomposes and is found in rocks, soil, and water. It is the leading cause of lung cancer in those who do not smoke. Unfortunately, it cannot be seen or smelled, so this hazard to a healthy and safe home can only be detected through testing.
According to the EPA, 4 picocuries per liter or more, also written as 4 pCi/L, is an unsafe level of radon indoors. The higher the concentration, the more dangerous radon becomes. Homes with high levels must have a radon mitigation contractor install a system to reduce radon levels in the home.
Prevent Mold
There are various types of mold, some more dangerous than others. All mold, however, can aggravate respiratory issues like asthma and allergies. To prevent mold in a healthy and safe home, use dehumidifiers and exhaust fans to keep humidity levels low. Check often for leaks and promptly address them so that mold doesn’t grow.
Dust Regularly
Another common cause of allergies is dust. Dust, like mold, can worsen respiratory conditions. Regular dusting helps relieve or reduce common symptoms of allergies. Clean or replace furnace and air conditioner filters often. Regularly clean vents and ducts to reduce dust, pollen, and other airborne allergens for a healthy and safe home.
There are many things you can do to make your home safe and healthy for your family. The above are just a few important steps to improve your home environment.
TUFF Home Inspections provides mold inspections, radon testing, and other home inspection services. Contact us to schedule an appointment in New Jersey.