COVID-19 has left many individuals feeling stuck within their homes. While a home is designed to make a family feel comfortable and safe, unknown toxins and hazards may potentially be lurking in unsuspected areas. As Americans continue to stay in place and spend more time at home than ever, it's important to be mindful of the hazards that exist.
Carbon Monoxide
According to the CDC, at least 430 people die in the US each year from unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) exposure. CO is an invisible and odorless gas that is usually formed when fuels aren’t able to fully combust; however, carbon monoxide gas has also been found from running cars and cigarette smoke. When people inhale carbon monoxide gas, the CO molecules displace oxygen within their bodies which can lead to poisoning and/or other harmful side effects similar to those of food poisoning and the flu. Eventually, an individual may even lose consciousness. Long term exposure to carbon monoxide has also been known to cause serious health issues such as brain damage and heart problems.
Many homes with fuel-burning appliances or attached garages are still likely to have CO issues. Since it is odorless, tasteless, and cannot otherwise be detected by other human senses, dangerous concentrations of this toxin can build up indoors without any notice. Therefore, it is imperative to regularly service any appliances that could be leaking the gas. Sources of carbon monoxide within your home may include appliances such as water heaters, clothes dryers, furnaces, stoves and ovens, grills, and fireplaces. Just be certain to have a professional test these appliances for the sake of avoiding any potential harm.
Asbestos
Asbestos, once deemed a “miracle mineral,” was widely used in building products throughout the mid to late 1900’s. Various cement, roofing, flooring, and insulation/fireproofing products can be found to be containing asbestos. While there is relatively no danger when the fibers remain undisturbed, these asbestos containing products and materials eventually degrade over time. This causes the fibers within the material to break down and be released into the air. When abating asbestos within a home, it is crucial that only professionals handle, remove, and dispose of the asbestos. Improperly handling the material can lead to inhalation of the material which can be quite hazardous.
Once these fibers are inhaled, they then become stuck within internal organs such as the lung, abdomen, and heart. Over time, inflammation and scarring can arise due to these fibers, eventually leading to possible tumors. Asbestos related diseases such as mesothelioma and asbestosis generally have long latency periods, taking years before symptoms start showing. Symptoms from exposure to asbestos include a number of ailments such as abdominal/chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing/wheezing, fever, and fatigue. Due to the commonality of these indicators, these diseases can often be misdiagnosed as other more common conditions which can hinder the quality of care an individual receives.
Radon
Radon is a naturally-occurring radioactive gas, and it is currently the second largest cause of lung cancer in the United States, after cigarette smoking. It’s formed when radioactive metals such as uranium, radium, and thorium break down within soil, rocks, and groundwater. The Surgeon General’s office estimates that radon currently accounts for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the U.S. alone.
The EPA recommends that those who are buying or selling a home should always have it tested for radon. At the very least, it is imperative to question those selling the house about their radon testing standards and protocol. Much like CO, radon cannot be seen, smelt, or tasted, but can still be commonly found in many homes across the country. Radon typically comes up through the ground it was broken down into, where it then moves through holes or cracks in the foundation, exposing the individuals inside. Well water has also been noted to contain radon, so it may be sensible to test there as well. Steps should be taken to abate the problem if radon levels of 4 picocuries per liter (4 pCi/L) or higher are found. As with the other toxins, this would include hiring a professional radon mitigation contractor.
Mold
Mold occurs in many different forms, both indoors and outdoors. Mold spores are present in almost all indoor environments, even places mold itself cannot grow. In addition, there is essentially zero way to prevent these spores. When these spores come into contact with something warm and damp, they begin to grow. This can include surfaces such as wood, plastic, glass, and fabric and carpeting. While it isn’t the most dangerous hazard on this list, mold can pose a more serious risk to those with existing respiratory problems, allergies, or weakened immune systems. As the mold grows, it can release fragments, unstable organic compounds, and even more spores into the air. Symptoms to watch for that are indicative of mold exposure include skin/eye irritation, fatigue, fever, headache, and wheezing.
Mold spores can enter through open doors, windows and vents, or even attached to people, pets and objects. Although the spores are invisible, once mold starts growing it is usually noticeable, and can sometimes even cause foul-smelling odors. Mold growth in homes can often be found in areas where leaks or floods have previously occurred, areas with heavy condensation, and places with bad air circulation such as the back of a drawer or cabinet. If you suspect you have mold and plan on remediating it, a properly rated face mask and eye protection is required to avoid the risk of any particulates coming into contact with your eyes or mouth/nose.
Home safety is imperative to everyone, not just those who are at higher risk. You can keep yourself and those in your home safe by routinely testing for hazards that may be hiding in plain sight. If hazards are found, be sure to hire a certified professional to minimize the risk to everyone involved.
