Hidden home hazards are all around us. We tend not to see them or detect them through their nature or common complacency. Whether you are aware of some, all, or none, they pose a significant health risk to you and your family. Here, we discuss some of the most obscure.
Dangerous Pests and Critters
Pests are a common issue in many households. While you may notice a few bugs, mice or spiders, they are often at a normal level. But when they begin to breed you can have some serious problems. The disease and even injury from bites makes pests one of the most worrying hidden dangers at home. Fortunately, most pest problems can be remedied with IGR for roaches, ant bait and human mouse and rat disposal for example. Just call an exterminator.
Bacterial Hidden Home Hazards
Following COVID-19, we are more aware of the hidden dangers of bacteria and viruses. But even as clean as we may be, germs are lurking everywhere. The things we use the most often contain the most bacteria. For example, common household bacteria such as Staphylococcus are found on cell phones and in the kitchen and bathroom. These are also where you will find the most mold. Around 47% of homes in the US have mold[1] in family functional areas.
Lead Paint on the Walls
If your home was built after the 19070s, then you probably shouldn’t worry. However, pre-70s homes had a high probability of lead paint. Lead was used in paint decades ago and wasn’t known to be a severe issue. You will find it mainly in the outside areas of the home, such as the siding, decking, and porch. However, it may also be present on the inside. The real issue with lead paint is that it tastes like sugar, and babies and toddlers are likely to eat the chips and dust.
There May be Asbestos
Another substance used decades ago, for fireproofing, is asbestos. Asbestos is known to be highly hazardous. It causes a specific type of lung cancer, Mesothelioma, when breathed in. If your home contains asbestos you often don’t need to worry though. The problems are when it is broken. When broken asbestos releases spores that cause breathing issues. This is why it is illegal to remove asbestos yourself. If you have asbestos, you must have it expertly removed.
FAQs About Hidden Home Hazards
Health and safety at home often relates to sharp objects and fires, but there are other issues. Given the amount of dangers in your home, you may have some questions about this issue. You may have even been injured at home since around 53.6 percent of injuries happen at home[2].
What is the number one hidden home hazard?
Of course, fire hazards are the number one issue, as fire can be caused in many different ways, often unexpectedly. Fires are almost always unintentional, too, with devastating consequences.
What is the most significant home fire hazard?
Further to fire, cooking fires are the top cause of a blaze at home. More than half of fires attended by firefighters are caused by unintentional cooking mishaps in the family home.
What are the toxic hazards in the home?
If you look under your kitchen sink, there are many dangerous chemicals that can cause death. Toxic hazards at home include cleaning products, laundry capsules, and prescription drugs.
A typical family home is a dangerous place when you really think about it. Just think about the things in your medicine cabinet, the cleaning products you use, and how you dispose of cooking oils. Being mindful and careful by keeping these safe will help reduce the risks of injuries.
Undetectable Carbon Monoxide
You know what gas smells like, right? Of course, you do. But did you know that consumer-grade gas, like propane, is actually odorless? The odor you detect is added during the bottling phase, so you know when there is a leak. However, there are many products that produce deadly carbon monoxide. And the scary thing about CO is you can’t smell it. Your gas furnace/boiler, space heaters, and your car all produce large amounts of CO. A CO alarm will detect a leak.
Tripping on Uneven Flooring
Perhaps this one isn’t that hidden. But it’s all too easy to trip over the flooring in your home. In fact, slips, trips, and falls are the top three causes of accidents in the house and at work. Every now and then, check the flooring for signs of danger. This includes buckled wood in the summer, frayed older carpets, and loose kitchen tiles. Don’t sleep on these, either! Fix them ASAP because they often just get worse and pose a serious injury risk to young children and toddlers.
Kitchen and Bathroom Hidden Home Hazards
We’ve mentioned the kitchen and bathroom regarding mold. Given that the average number of bathrooms in an American home is 2.8[3], we feel it’s worth the time. Aside from mold, there are also other serious hazards to watch out for. Electrical issues are common in homes, and maintaining yours in the kitchen and bathroom will help reduce serious incidents. Of course, kitchens are also full of sharp objects. And do we need to mention how slippery a bathroom is?
Blocked Escape Routes
When something goes wrong in the home, such as fire, flood, or storm damage, you need to be able to escape safely. However, the main hazard in the house these days can be your own lack of common sense! There must be a clear escape route when something goes terribly wrong. This means fully openable windows, no hallway blockages, and easy access to a fire escape. Practicing an evacuation with the family can also mean the difference between safety and harm.
Summary
One of the most common hidden home hazards is pests such as cockroaches. However, fire and toxic chemicals are among the highest causes of home injury. When there is an issue, you must have an escape route and practice evacuation to decrease the chance of severe harm.
