Top 5 Hidden Dangers In Your Home

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Although your home should be a safe haven, hazards can be present without your notice. Indeed, these hidden dangers can cause injuries, respiratory problems, allergies, and other health conditions. Moreover, you may be held accountable if anything goes wrong in your home. Therefore, identifying and resolving these hazards is essential. That said, here are a few you can consider. 

1. Pets

No one wants to imagine the possibility that their pets may hurt others, yet these incidents always happen. Dog bites, for instance, account for over 15,000 liability claims annually. Cats, too, can be another source of danger in your home since they can bite and scratch. It’s a must to ensure you train your pets well and adopt safety measures to prevent them from causing harm to people. You may have to secure pets in a safe location when entertaining visitors in your home, so keep this in mind.

2. Asbestos

Asbestos may boast fireproof properties, yet it is a flawed product with hidden danger. This inexpensive material was widely used in insulation, roof shingles, and vinyl linoleum floors. When inhaled, asbestos can be dangerous to your health. While it is no longer recommended, asbestos may hide in your walls if your home is relatively old. Experts suggest all forms of asbestos are potentially carcinogenic, so get professionals to inspect and remove this hidden danger if it’s in your home.

3. Improperly anchored furniture

You may feel your furniture pieces are too heavy to be displaced by kids or little animals. However, they constitute an imminent danger in your home. A little kid may not have the strength to lift a chair, but that doesn’t mean the furniture can’t tip over accidentally and hurt them. The major concern about these items is their tendency to topple over and fall on people. Adults may endure furniture injuries, but the consequences can be extreme for children. Therefore, consider securing larger furniture to the walls to prevent injuries.

4. Pool and spa drains

Few homes have swimming pools or spas, but these areas need serious attention. Studies show kids under 1-year-old are more prone to drowning in the bathroom or a bucket at home. While the primary concern here may be kids drowning, there is still a looming threat from the drains for pools and spas. They often use suction to distribute water through your filtration systems, presenting hazards even to experienced swimmers. Therefore, ensure your kids or pets don’t go near water bodies alone. Installing security fencing and gates is essential to protect your little ones from the hazards of pools and spas. Ideally, pools and spas need to be properly covered, and drains equipped with appropriate covers for maximum safety. 

5. Water damage

Admittedly, this common plumbing hazard can cause costly repairs. However, it can also trigger mold growth, which can cause allergies and respiratory problems. To prevent this, hire only professional local plumbing contractors to work on your plumbing fixtures, pipes, and fittings. Conduct regular inspections to identify leaks and avoid water damage.