How To Avoid “Sick-House” Syndrome
Although we all know that fresh air is good for us, we tend to associate it with spending time outdoors. Since many of us spend most of our lives indoors, we should educate ourselves on the danger of what is called “sick-house” syndrome. This occurs when our homes, offices, etc. are sealed tightly to prevent noise, pollution, or cold air from entering. Unfortunately, this also prevents harmful fumes caused by paints, cleaning products, deodorizers and wood smoke from getting out. Even our furnishings, carpeting, and clothing can emit dangerous pollutants.
Studies show that the air in our homes should be changed ten times per day – anything less causes build up of dangerous pollutants. Below are some tips to help avoid “sick-house” syndrome. First, open the windows (just a crack is sufficient) when possible, and check to make sure that all vents are unblocked.
Another problem that lack of ventilation can cause is mold and mildew. This is found to be a danger not only to your health, but it can also damage the structure of your house. Especially in rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms, where humidity is likely to be high, proper ventilation is essential. The use of fans in these areas are helpful.
Also, check areas such as the attic, and underneath floors for proper air circulation. If you have a humidity problem upstairs, it probably means that the attic or roof space needs more ventilation. Be aware that some types of flooring can cause structural damage if there is not adequate ventilation beneath it.
We all want our homes to smell nice, and a clean, well-ventilated house will. But unpleasant odors happen, and we must not become overzealous in using artificial scents that add more pollutants to the air. Aerosols, in particular, are not eco-friendly and often contain nasty additives. Do not fall into the trap of trying to create a “fresh smelling” home by adding more chemicals to our already polluted air.
You can easily make your own room deodorizer by sprinkling a few drops of vanilla or essential oil on a cotton ball. Place this in a small open container to prevent the oil or alcohol from damaging your furniture. Other natural room fresheners to use include baking soda, white vinegar, fresh or dried herbs, or even a bowl of fresh apples. And, if you like the scent of fresh flowers, treat yourself to the real thing instead of using an artificial spray. Try to keep chemical-laced cleaners, and perfumed products to a minimum, and use natural products as much as possible.
If you or your loved ones suffer from unexplained drowsiness, headaches or a general malaise, try getting fresher air through the house. Your family and your home with breath easier and avoid the “sick-house” syndrome.
Scrapbooking – Magnifying Marbles
Glass marbles add a unique magnifying effect to letters or photographs under them. This is a great elegant touch for favorite relatives or gift scrapbooks. Glass marbles can also be used to create artistic children’s art and scientific looking scrapbooks for young scientists.
To create this look, you will need glass marbles with one flat side. Alternately, you will have to cut your glass marbles in half. Then, paste these marbles, using clear drying glue, on top of writing or an embellishment that you want magnified.
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Replace Smoke and CO Alarm Batteries This Weekend
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association (GAMA) are joining forces to urge consumers to replace the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms when changing their clocks this Sunday, October 30th.
“Working smoke and CO alarms can help protect your family from a fire or carbon monoxide (CO) hazard in your home,” said CPSC Chairman Hal Stratton. “Take the time to put fresh batteries in your alarms. That simple step could save your life.”
“CO is a colorless, odorless, toxic gas that consumers cannot see or smell,” said GAMA President Jack Klimp. “We are concerned that consumers may not be sufficiently aware of all the potential sources for CO in the home. These sources include an automobile engine running in an attached garage; a fuel-burning appliance that is installed improperly or connected to a blocked or leaking vent system; or a portable gasoline-powered generator, charcoal grill or camp stove improperly used indoors.”
In addition to replacing batteries in smoke and CO alarms at least once every year, CPSC recommends testing them monthly. Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of your home, outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom. CO alarms should be installed outside each sleeping area. Battery backup is an important consideration for those alarms that are powered by your home’s electrical system.
In 1999, an estimated 2,390 people died in residential fires, 14,550 were injured and 337,000 residential fires were reported to fire departments.
Recent studies indicate that children under 16 and hearing-impaired older adults may not always be awakened by smoke alarms. Therefore, CPSC recommends that home fire escape plans factor in a family member who does not respond to the smoke alarm and that escape drills be practiced during the day and night. CPSC staff is looking into ways to improve smoke alarm audibility for children as well as hearing-impaired older adults.
While about 90 percent of homes have smoke alarms, far fewer have carbon monoxide alarms. Between 1999 and 2002, carbon monoxide associated with consumer products killed an average of about 140 people each year.
According to CPSC and GAMA, a CO alarm provides an added measure of protection against carbon monoxide poisoning from all potential sources in the home. The best way to make sure that gas appliances do not become a source of CO is to have a professional inspect your installed appliances annually.
Remember to never use gasoline-powered generators, camp stoves, and charcoal grills indoors or in enclosed spaces. They can generate high levels of deadly carbon monoxide.
Both CPSC and GAMA recommend consumers purchase CO alarms that meet the requirements of UL 2034 or CSA 6.19.
To view this release online, please visit: cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml06/06015.html
