Don't Talk Trash: How To Limit And Properly Dispose Of Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials are lurking everywhere in your home. You can find them in the garage, in your cupboards and even the closet that you have dedicated to arts and crafts. In order to prevent illness, you need to be able to identify what the hazardous materials are and how to properly dispose of them. As long as you are able to do these two things, you will reduce your chances of you or a loved one having health issues and ending up in the hospital.

Arts And Crafts

There are several ingredients in arts and crafts materials that contain hazardous materials. Many of the additives that are mixed in with craft paint can actually cause harm to your central nervous system. If you are exposed to these additives for too long, they can attack your organs and can even lead to liver disease.

The woods and clays that you use for certain hobbies contain harmful dust particles. When you work with these materials, they can emit dust and fibers into the air and can aggravate asthma or allergies. After prolonged exposure, these dust particles can get stuck in your nose and can lead to sinus cancer. Some clays, such as white clay, contain silica, which is believed to be one of the leading causes of lung disease.

It is fairly simple to limit how you are exposed to these materials. When you purchase them, read the labels carefully. Labels on these items will warn you if they are toxic. Arts and crafts products that are non-toxic will say "certified product." Look for this sign on the label. It is also important to wear protective gear when using products that do contain toxins. Face masks and eye wear are particularly important so that dust particles don't get into your eyes or in your mouth and nose.

Cleaners

It could be safe to say that you have at least three bottles of hazardous materials underneath your kitchen sink. This is a common place to hold all household cleaners. Though you may think they are safe enough to use around your house every day, they aren't. For instance, many oven cleansers contain lye, which can corrode  your skin after long exposure. Mixing household cleaners together will damage your lungs and could cause diseases and asthma.

To avoid these health hazards, always ventilate your home before you clean. Open windows if you intend on using harsh chemicals. You can also choose to take an all-natural approach to your cleaners as well. Using apple cider vinegar and baking soda solutions for tough jobs around the house will stop your exposure to dangerous materials.

Garage And Automobiles

Its no surprise that there are several hazardous materials lurking in your garage. However, not knowing how to dispose of them properly is more hazardous than just owning them. Old car batteries, used oil and anti-freeze are three common items found in the garage that can cause harm to you and those around you. If used oil is not disposed of how it should be, it has the potential to pollute 250,000 gallons of water. If your old car battery is leaking, it can lead to acid burns and lead poisoning. Anti-freeze, which is potentially the most deadly of the three, is sweet-tasting. If spilled, it can attract small animals and children and will cause their respiratory system to shut down.

Luckily, you can recycle these three items. Take these products to an auto parts store or a waste disposal company, like Quik Pick Waste Disposal, for proper disposal.

Hazardous materials can be found all over your house and have the potential of causing severe health problems. You cannot avoid using some of the items listed; however, you can educate yourself on the proper way to use them and dispose of them. Following the guide above, you can help limit the exposure and possible adverse health effects.

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