Four Things You Need to Know About Household Chemicals

February 17, 2010

You have them everywhere...under the kitchen sink and in the bathroom, the garage, the storage shed, and the workshop. Yes, I'm talking about household chemicals. We tend to take them for granted, but many of them can be harmful and even deadly if used improperly. Here are four safety tips on how to safely use, store, and dispose of a variety of the chemicals you will find in your home.

• Plan ahead. If you have a specific task for which you need a chemical, buy the smallest package that will get the job done. If you have leftover material, you will have to deal with storing and disposing of it. Or buy an environmentally safe substitute and avoid the problems.
• Storage. Ask yourself three questions. Is it flammable? Is it poisonous? Is it otherwise harmful? To begin with, ALL household chemicals should be stored out of reach of children, and away from any food products. Store flammable materials outside the house, preferably in a well-ventilated shed. Lock up poisons such as insecticides and pesticides so children and pets cannot get at them. Store chemicals in an area where any leakage will be contained and can be easily cleaned up. Keep everything in its original, labeled container. Do not store chemicals in a container that may be used for food.
• Usage. When using household chemicals, carefully read the label for precautions and instructions BEFORE you open the package. Safety equipment such as gloves, breathing masks, and safety glasses may be required when using some materials. Be sure you are in a well-ventilated area when using household chemicals. In case of accident, know what first-aid measures to take.
• Disposal. Dispose of all unused household chemicals properly. Do not pour them down the toilet, on the ground, or down the storm drain. Many household chemicals are recyclable, so contact your local recycling authority for information. Many others must be disposed of at a hazardous materials waste site. Read the label for proper disposal methods.
• And should any hazardous household chemical be ingested by a family member, know what to do. Keep emergency numbers by the phone and on the refrigerator. Do not try to induce vomiting, but get instructions from the poison control hotline or call 9-1-1 if the person is in severe distress.

If you follow all these guidelines you will keep yourself, your family, and the environment free from harm.

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