Spring is approaching and soon it will be time to deep clean our homes. Before starting your cleaning routine, it's important to review how to safely use your favorite household products. It's Poison Prevention Week during March, and we want to bring awareness by providing helpful tips to keep in mind when cleaning your home this spring.
Clear Out Expired Products
Before using your cleaning products, check the labels and properly dispose of all expired or outdated supplies. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) says the first aid advice on containers may be incorrect and outdated. To double check the first aid information on the products call Poison Help (1-800-222-1222).
Properly Store Products
The HRSA advises strong chemicals to be stored in the same containers they came in, and not to use food containers, cups or bottles. This not only prevents possible leaking or spilling, but also the chance of a mix up. Many poisonings occur when one product is mistaken for another, so it is important to keep strong chemicals stored away from food and in their easily identifiable containers.
Correctly Use Products
Reading the instructions of how to properly use products is important to be able to use it effectively and safely. Some simple tips to keep in mind to correctly use products: never mix chemicals, never sniff containers to identify its contents, always spray away from people and pets, and turn on fans or open windows when using strong products.
Safely Landscape Your Yard
Many garden chemicals are poisonous to children, adults, and pets, which is why it's important to know how to safely use each product you apply outdoors. When using strong spray chemicals, such as pesticides, wear protective clothing like gloves, long-sleeves and pants to avoid splashes directly on the skin. Chemicals can be taken in through the skin or inhaled, be sure to stay away from areas which have been sprayed until it has dried.
Keep Your Home Safe for Spring
When accidents happen with chemicals or medicine, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. If someone has trouble breathing, call 911 right away. Keep your home safe from poisonings following these tips and more from PoisionHelp.HRSA.gov.
If you want to make sure your home is protected from all other accidents, call us at Edison Insurance Company (866-568-8922), or ask your agent how they can help make sure you have the proper coverage.
