Here are six of the most common home dangers:
1. Falls
This can be one of the deadliest at-home injuries. Put handrails on both sides of any stairs, and install grab bars in showers.
2. Fires
The greatest risk comes from inhaling smoke. Make sure your home has working smoke alarms, and keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
3. Radon
Radon is responsible for about 21,000 cancer deaths a year. Test the air in your home.
4. Carbon monoxide
Have any gas or oil burning furnaces and water heaters serviced annually, and don’t use generators, camping stoves or outdoor barbecue grills inside your house.
5. Tainted Water
Water in many U.S. cities flows through old lead pipes. And 22 of the country’s 25 largest cities also have chlorine, E. coli bacteria and other harmful substances in the water. Use a water-filtering system.
6. Paints and cleaners
Roughly 40 percent of U.S. homes contain lead paint. Screen your children for lead exposure at ages 1 and 2.
[Source]
Chapter: Home and Living :: 29 July 2010
