Take Action to Improve Air Quality in Every Room Mold can lead to allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory ailments. Mold can grow anywhere there is moisture in a house m The key to mold control is moisture control • If mold ts a problem in your home, you should clean up the mold promptly' and 6s the water problem ¦ It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24*48 hours to prevent mold growth Children are especially sensitive to secondhand smoke, which can trigger asthma and other respiratory illnesses. Secondhand smoke smoke comes from burning tobacco products such as cigarettes, pipes, and cigars » To help protect children from secondhand smoke, do not smoke or allow others to smoke inside your home or cur Asthma is a serious, sometimes life-threatening respiratory disease that affects the quality of life for millions of Americans. Environmental asthma triggers are found around the home and can be eliminated wi th simple steps • Doii'l allow smoking in your home or car ¦ Dust said clean your home regularly • Dean up mold and fix water leaks ¦ Wadi sheets and blankets weekly in hot water • Use allergen-proof waitress and pillow covers ¦ Keep pets out of die bedroom and ofT soft furniture • Control pests- -dtase up crack* and crevices and seal leaks, don't leave food out Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. VOCs cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, and can damage the liver, kidney, and central nervous system. Volatile organic compounds < VOCs) are chemicals thai evaporate at room temperature VOCs are emitted by a wide array of products used «n homes including paint* and lacquers, paint stoppers, varnishes, cleaning supplies, air fresheners, pesticides, building materials, and furnishings VOCs are released from products into the Itome both dimng use and while stored m Read and follow all directions and warnings on common household products • Make sure there is plemy of fresh air and ventilation (eg. opening window, and using extra fans) when painting, remodeling, or using other products thai may release VOCs. ¦ Never irux products, such as household cleaners, unless directed to do so on the label • Store household products that conuun chemicals according to manufactures*' instructions • Keep all products away from children' Radon gas enters your home through cracks and openings in floors and walls in contact with (he ground ¦ Test your home with a do-n-yourself radon kit If the test result indicates you should fix. call a qualified radon mitigation specialist Carbon monoxide causes headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue, and high levels can be fatal. Nitrogen dioxide causes eyes, nose, and throat irritation, impairs lung function, and increases respiratory infections. Sources include indoor use of furnaces, gas stov es, unvented kerosene and gas space heaters, leaking chimneys, and tobacco products ¦ Ventilate rooms where fuel-burning appliances are used • Use appliances thai %eni to the outside whenever possible » Ensure that all fuel-bunung appliances are properly installed, usedL adjusted, and maintained ¦ Ask your builder about i ncluding radon-reducing features in your new home at the tune of construction ------- |