The connection between health and the dwelling of the population is one of the most important that exists. Florence Nightingale (1820-1910)

Prevention does not seem to be in our human nature. We know it makes sense, but to spend money before a problem exists challenges us.

What steps can you take to be preventive in your home and ensure a healthy living environment?

Check Radon - Prevent Lung Cancer

Any home can have high levels of radon depending on what rocks are in the ground under that home. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that comes from uranium in the ground. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers and the second leading cause of lung cancer in the general population. The Surgeon General and EPA recommend testing for radon and reducing radon in homes that have high levels.

Since you cannon see or smell radon, special equipment is needed to detect it. When you're ready to test your home, contact your state radon office for information on locating qualified test kits or qualified radon testers.

During construction of a new home or if radon levels are high, install a radon mitigation system. These are like inserting a big straw from the ground to the roof to allow the gas to escape. Sometimes a fan is required. The cost for an existing home is $800-1200, but much less if installed during home construction.

Eliminate Lead Hazards - Prevent Brain and Neurological Damage

An ideal blood-lead level for anyone is zero—any lead is too much and can affect the brain, nervous system, cardiovascular system, reproductive system, and kidneys.

If you live in a building constructed before 1978, you may live with lead-based paint. When this paint chips or peels or when painted surfaces rub together, are cut, or are stepped on, dangerous lead dust can be released and inhaled or ingested.

Children are most susceptible to lead’s toxic effects but adults and pets can suffer too.

Beware too of lead in vinyl (like old mini-blinds), brass (like keys and candlesticks), and glazes (on dishware, bathtubs, and ceramic tile).
 
If you hire someone to renovate your pre-1978 home, hire only Certified Renovators who work for Certified Firms. Find a listing at: National Lead Information Center

If you have or will soon have children ages six or younger spending significant time in your home, visit the Where You Live section of the EPA website - http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/leadoff1.htm

Ask your physician to test all children ages one and two who have spent significant time in your contaminated home for lead.
 

Monitor Carbon Monoxide (CO) - Prevent a Lethal Poisoning

If you burn fuel in your home, such as wood, oil, kerosene, natural gas, or propane, you may have high levels of carbon monoxide. When fuel is not burned completely, this odorless, colorless poisonous gas can be produced and cause headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea, fatigue, and even death.
 
Install CO detectors outside of the main sleeping area or in each bedroom. (They cost $25-70 each.)  Maintain and properly adjust all fuel-burning appliances. Install and use exhaust fans, open all fireplace flues, and ventilate.
 

Other Home Health Concerns

Other health concerns in the home include mold and mildew, pests and rodents, fire and fall hazards, and household chemicals (including air fresheners). The National Center for Healthy Housing, is a great resource for more information. You may also be interested in reading - Bath toy safety  - Reducing mold and bacteria,  Avoiding BPA in toddler products or Carpet cleaning safety

By Linda Block - Linda is the Lead Risk Assessor and Healthy Homes Specialist with the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. Her program is housed at Warren Wilson College, NC.