What type of Hazards Might you Find in Your Home?

Hazards can certainly be found throughout any home, but they can also be eliminated. With reports out there about products with unsafe levels of formaldehyde or another chemical, it's important to recognize some of the hazards in your home. Here's a look at just a few of the many potential hazards that should be addressed.

Unsafe Gas Lines

If you live in an older home, you could have an unsafe or hidden gas line. These lines may be capped off or have been converted into electric, but not all are inactive. If you have an active gas line in your home, you may not even know it. Some homeowners have actually used them as towel racks without understanding the risk.

Unstable TVs and Stoves

Some of the very lightweight TVs and stoves that have been made since the 1980s are prone to tipping over. These stoves and TVs can be quite dangerous if they are not installed properly. They can tip over and cause all kinds of issues. In fact, Sears has to settle a large lawsuit due to deaths and injuries caused by a lightweight stove that was prone to tipping over.

Smoke Detectors that don't Work

If you have smoke detectors and they don't have batteries in them, have been unplugged or simply don't work, they can cause major issues. In the event of a fire, you may not know until it's too late.

It can also be a hazard if you have an ionization smoke detector. While these detectors alarm you to large burning particles, they may not detect slow-burning fires very well. Instead of an ionization smoke detector use a photoelectric alarm for hallways and bedrooms.

These are just a few of the potential hazards found in home. Whether you live in an older home or a newer home, it's a good idea to ensure you understand the lines on your property, your appliances and the smoke detectors found throughout your home. Hazards can be prevented before they become a major issue.