Health Tip: Prevent Mold in the Home
Mold is a tiny fungus that can grow inside the home and cause allergies and other health problems.
The University of Virginia Health System offers these suggestions to help keep mold out of your home:
* Keep humidity at low levels -- between 40 percent and 60 percent, and use an air conditioner or dehumidifier when it's humid outside.
* Use exhaust fans to keep areas such as kitchens and bathrooms well ventilated.
* Keep carpet out of areas where moisture may collect, such as bathrooms or basements.
* Promptly and thoroughly dry any furnishings that get wet, especially carpets or upholstered furniture.
* Fix any leaky plumbing, roofs, or walls.
* Use cleaners that kill mold.
* If you're painting, add a mold inhibitor to the paint.
Health Tip: Harmful Chemicals in Your Home
Common household products for cleaning, cooking and doing other chores can contain potentially dangerous chemicals.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services lists these safety tips for household products:
* Check all products for warnings before use, and always follow instructions on the label.
* When you are finished using a product, throw it away. Toss any old products that you don't need any more.
* Make sure all potentially dangerous products are stored where children cannot reach them, and in an area with good ventilation.
* Be especially careful with dangerous products such as paint strippers, or any other products that contain methylene chloride.
* Be careful with chemicals around animals.
* Pay attention to clothes that have been drycleaned. If you notice a strong chemical smell, take it back and ask that it be cleaned or dried again.
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