Common Safety Hazards Hidden in the Home

People spend most of their days and nights at home, but they may not realize how the house could have dangers in every room. These risk areas cover the most common safety hazards homeowners need to observe regularly.

Summary: Home Safety Measures

• Ventilation & Air Quality: Maintain proper ventilation, especially with natural gas appliances, to prevent harmful gas accumulation and ensure good air quality.
• Furniture Safety: Secure furniture to the wall, especially in homes with children or in earthquake-prone areas, to prevent injuries from falling furniture.
• Electrical & Hot Water Safety: Cover exposed wiring and outlets, and maintain the water heater temperature above 49 degrees Celsius to prevent burns and bacterial growth.
• Carbon Monoxide Awareness: Install detectors and be aware of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, a potential danger in homes using certain fuels.
• Fire Safety: Monitor fire hazards such as candles, ensure proper placement, and extinguish when not supervised. Install smoke alarms, have a fire extinguisher, and prepare an evacuation plan. 

Before we delve further into the details of each category, let's look at a comprehensive table that provides a quick snapshot of the primary concerns in home safety, the preventive measures that can be taken, and the necessary tools or equipment required for each category. This table is a guide and a quick reference tool for understanding and implementing these safety precautions in your home.

The table above illustrates the different aspects of home safety, from maintaining indoor air quality to preventing fire breakouts. Each category has its own primary concerns and preventive measures, with various tools and equipment highlighted to help mitigate these risks.

Remember, effectively implementing these measures requires consistent effort and understanding each category. Home safety is not a one-time task but an ongoing commitment to ensure a secure environment for you and your family.

Ventilation & Indoor Air Quality

Proper ventilation in the home is key to keeping everyone healthy and happy. Homes that run on natural gas for heat or cooking need adequate ventilation for the furnace or range. Without ventilation, a deadly amount of carbon monoxide could accumulate. Ventilation also helps to eliminate fumes from cleaning products. Harsh chemicals could also cause long-term health problems if they are not properly removed from the home.

Furniture Support

People living in earthquake-prone areas know that they need to secure their furniture to the wall so it does not topple. However, families with young children should also ensure that their furniture pieces are properly anchored to the wall. If pets or household members climb on the furniture and it falls, it may injure or crush them.

Electrical Systems

Exposed wiring and electrical outlets are a significant source of shocks in the home each year. Homeowners should consider placing covers on outlets to reduce access to the outlets for pets and any members of the household who may be tempted to play with them. Problems with a home's electricity are often best solved by an expert.

Fire Safety & Associated Risks

Fire safety is essential, often overlooked at home, with candles being a prime example of an underestimated risk. Candles, while atmospheric, can quickly become fire hazards if unsupervised. Ensure their stability, keep them away from flammable materials and blow them out when leaving the room. Other fire hazards in the home should not be neglected either.

Key fire safety precautions include installing and regularly testing smoke alarms, having a fire extinguisher, knowing how to use it, and establishing an evacuation plan. The most  common household fire hazards include:

• Unattended candles
• Electrical appliances and wiring
• Cooking equipment
• Flammable liquids and aerosols
• Improperly discarded cigarettes

Hot Water

Getting hot water from the tap could be a source of burns or bacteria. Turning the water heater temperature below 49 degrees Celsius could promote the growth of Legionella Bacteria, which may cause various respiratory conditions. Experts recommend setting a water heater to at least 49 degrees. A mixing valve keeps the water out of the tap at a comfortable and safe temperature for the whole family.

Carbon Monoxide in the Home

One of the most secretive dangers in the home is carbon monoxide poisoning, which occurs when this gas builds up in your bloodstream due to exposure. This colorless, odorless gas tends to accumulate due to burning certain fuels such as gas, propane, charcoal or wood—especially in small, enclosed spaces. When carbon monoxide reaches dangerous levels, symptoms may appear that include:

• Dull headaches
• Weakness
• Nausea or Vomiting
• Confusion
• Shortness of Breath
• Dizziness
• Blurred Vision
• Loss of Consciousness

Falling Hazards

Anything that could cause someone to trip or lose their balance is a potential safety hazard. Where falls are concerned, staircases and windows are particularly risky. People with limited mobility are more likely to fall down the stairs and injure themselves, whether due to age or disability. Gates minimize the chances of infants and toddlers climbing the stairs unsupervised. People can also install special guards to prevent windows from opening too wide. 

Finding safety in the home may be more difficult than people expect. With a better understanding of these home dangers, South East Calgary home buyers and homeowners can be more prepared to prevent a disaster. Obtaining life insurance for people with disabilities may also be beneficial.