May 2000
Home Sick Home
How's the air at home? If you're like most people, your
eyebrows raised and you find this to be an obscure question. But you might
just want to take a little time to learn more about the air quality in your
home. Besides, wouldn't you want to reduce the risk of allergic
reactions, chronic bronchitis, nausea, headaches, fatigue and breathing
problems, not to mention minimize the chance of slow or sudden toxic gas poisoning?
Visibly, your home may seem immaculate, but
there are a number of sly culprits that contribute to indoor air
pollution. And in newer, more energy efficient and airtight homes,
pollutants are susceptible to becoming trapped inside the home.
According to the Chicago Tribune (May
14, 2000), 37 percent of homeowners have a carbon monoxide detector; one in
eleven has a radon detector; and four in ten do not replace air filters
every two to three months, as recommended.
What are some of the leading culprits that
cause indoor air pollution?
- Heating systems that use gas or wood can
emit carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, which are both odorless and
colorless. Carbon monoxide can be lethal if enough of it is
ingested.
- Radon, the second leading cause of lung cancer next to cigarette
smoking, is also an odorless and colorless gas that can seep into the
home through cracks in basement floors, foundations and walls.
- Air conditioners, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, if not well
maintained, can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which
could cause allergic reactions.
Some of the recommendations from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and
the American Lung Association include the following:
- Check for radon levels inside your home.
- Be sure that the flue is open when using your fireplace, and have the
fireplace and chimney inspected annually for blockage or cracks.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector and ensure it works properly.
- Check your home regularly for trapped moisture, find the cause and
repair as soon as possible.
- Replace furnace filters regularly, every two to three months.
Learn more about radon and inspecting
your fireplace and chimney.
For more information on indoor air quality, visit the American lung
Association at www.lungusa.com or the
Environmental Health Center of the National Safety Council at www.nsc.org/ehc/airqual.htm.
Other stories in this month's report:
