Common Hidden Hazards in Homes Across Canada

Lives may be at risk when Canadian homeowners fail to monitor and attend to potential dangers within home. From smoke to carbon monoxide to other hidden dangers, how can occupants reduce potential home hazards? Learn about common hidden dangers found in residences today.

Fire In the Home: Where There Is Smoke…

A smoke alarm may be installed but not be operating as intended. Know that monthly testing is suggested for smoke alarms and that batteries need to be replaced not once, but twice a year. A properly functioning smoke alarm can provide early detection of a possible fire. Protect household members by installing and maintaining smoke alarms as fires in a home can lead to serious burns, injuries and worse.

In case of a fire, all occupants should be aware of how to use a fire extinguisher and practice their home fire escape plan to reduce the risk of significant burns or injury. Some fires are not easily put out with water. It may be worthwhile to look into fire extinguishers to address a fire from other flammable substances.

Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer

Homeowners cannot see it or smell it. Carbon monoxide gas is dangerous because it can be difficult for occupants to detect the gas without a carbon monoxide detector. Initial symptoms of exposure may include headaches, shortness of breath, nausea and more. Death from asphyxia from this gas emitted from vehicles and furnaces has occurred in Ontario and other areas.

Homeowners can prevent additional deaths from this gas. Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in a residence and located at every level of a home, placed outside of sleeping areas. Remember to test carbon monoxide alarms on a monthly basis.

The Danger of Radon Exposure

Some families may be at risk of health issues from radon. This radioactive gas, which develops from the breakdown of uranium in earth and water, oftentimes enters a home by seeping through cracks in the foundation and can be hard to detect. The presence of radon in a home can lead to lung cancer for occupants, particularly smokers who, when exposed to high levels of radon over a long period, are at higher risk than non-smokers when it comes to developing lung cancer. It is possible to test a home's radon level with radon home testing kits readily available online and in some hardware stores.

Protect household members from preventable injuries or health issues from Williamstown home hazards. Radon gas, carbon dioxide gas and smoke are only a few of the hidden, and potentially deadly, hazards homeowners need to address in their home.