WHAT ARE THE MOST DANGEROUS HOUSEHOLD CHEMICALS?

Household chemicals can absolutely make our lives easier, but many cleaners and chemicals can be dangerous when used improperly. To avoid serious accidents, carefully follow the instructions on the product label and make sure these five chemicals are always stored safely in your home or business to maintain safety. AMMONIA: It is used as a refrigerant gas, for purification of water supplies, and in the manufacture of plastics, explosives, textiles, pesticides, dyes and other chemicals. It is found in many household and industrial-strength cleaning solutions. Pure chemical ammonia can cause severe burns and respiratory issues if it comes into contact with skin or is ingested. When working with ammonia, wearing heavy-duty gloves, goggles and a face mask are smart precautions to protect your health. ANTIFREEZE: Also known as coolant, is a bright yellow or green liquid that mixes with the water in cars, trucks and other vehicles to keep the radiators from freezing or overheating. Swallowing antifreeze (ethylene glycol) may cause damage to the heart, brain, kidney and other internal organs. Inhaling antifreeze is not as dangerous, but may cause dizziness. BLEACH: It's used to disinfect surfaces, too, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. Hospitals and hotels use bleach to clean and disinfect bed linens and surfaces. Restaurants disinfect food preparation surfaces with chlorine bleach. Being a strong corrosive substance, bleach can affect the respiratory system if inhaled. It can also irritate or burn the skin and eyes. Always wear cleaning gloves and a dust mask when using bleach. DRAIN CLEANERS: It is used to break down organic material that builds up and obstructs pipes. Most chemical drain cleaners contain powerful alkaline compounds, including lye, that can cause serious damage when it comes into contact with your skin or eyes. AIR FRESHENERS: It is formulated to freshen building rooms and enclosed places by releasing fragrances to combat undesirable odors and smells. This one probably comes as a surprise, but the truth is many commercial air fresheners contain formaldehyde and other potentially dangerous chemicals. Even ones called green and organic, can emit potentially hazardous chemicals. These are just some of the more damaging household chemicals commonly found in homes. There are many other cleaners which contain potentially dangerous chemicals. For professional cleaning services, please call us SERVPRO of Ventura at (805) 656-3911. www.SERVPROventura.com