Making a Home Healthy and Safe
When most people think of being healthy, they usually think of exercise and nutrition and overlook how much your environment affects your health. Making your house healthy and safe doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. With a few changes, you can make significant improvements. Here are some ways to make your home healthy and safe.
Test for Lead Paint
As paint ages, it can peel and chip. Lead paint is not a problem until it begins flaking or is otherwise disturbed and particles from the paint enter the air. Lead poisoning is a very serious concern, especially for young children.
If you live in a house that was built before 1978, then you need to test for lead. You can consult a health department near you regarding lead paint testing. You can also minimize your exposure by covering all your walls with gypsum wallboard.
Test Your Home for Radon
Radon is present across the United States and any house is at risk, regardless of age. Radon is a serious threat to your family’s health. Breathing air with high levels of radon can cause lung cancer over time. Because the gas is odorless and colorless, the only way to detect it is by having a professional test your home.
If the levels are too high, contact a certified radon mitigation contractor to help bring your home within normal levels. Retest for radon after any renovations or every two years to keep your home healthy and safe.
Prepare For a House Fire
Installing smoke detectors is the best way to prepare for a house fire as an alarm gives you enough time to take action before a fire spreads. Place detectors inside of bedrooms, in adjacent hallways, in common areas, in the attic, and in the basement. Make sure you test your smoke detectors every month. Also, keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, garage, and laundry room.
Monitor Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is a hazardous gas that can’t be seen and has no odor. It comes from faulty fuel-burning appliances like gas water heaters, charcoal grills, blocked chimneys, cars, and gas or kerosene cooking stoves. To keep your home healthy and safe from carbon monoxide, place detectors within fifteen feet of each room in your house. Make sure to replace the batteries at least twice each year.
Keep Your Home Healthy and Safe From Harmful Pesticides
When it comes to making your home healthy and safe, avoid using pesticides that contain harmful chemicals. They will break down and contaminate your soil and water. Look for non-toxic solutions for getting rid of pests.
Use these tips to help jumpstart your efforts to making your home healthy and safe. When in doubt, always consult a professional who can assess and test your home for hazards.
Elite Home Inspections provides radon testing to Louisville, Kentucky, and the surrounding area. Contact us to schedule a radon test.