With unintentional poisoning listed one of the leading causes of accidental injury in the U.S., Ohio families may want to familiarize themselves with some of the dangerous products that may be hiding in their homes. Most poisonings are preventable, but only if parents familiarize themselves with the toxic materials that sometimes lurk in common products. Some items may not carry adequate labels to warn of the hazardous chemicals contained within seemingly innocuous substances.
Household cleaning products may seem like an obvious source for dangerous chemicals, but it is still important for individuals – and especially parents with young children – to remain cautious. Becoming familiar with the potentially toxic ingredients contained within the cleaning supplies may prove useful, as sometimes the chemicals are less harmful independently but may turn life-threatening when used in combination with other chemicals. Since some products may not have sufficient warnings on their labels, it may be safest for parents to keep all products safely out of reach, whether or not they seem harmless or claim to be all-natural.
Current federal law does not require chemicals used in home products to be tested for health and safety, meaning that many traditional personal care products may be full of harmful ingredients. Products are frequently rushed to store shelves at an alarming rate only to be recalled later when harmful effects to consumers are discovered. While it should always be the manufacturers’ responsibility – not the consumers’ – to ensure that a product isn’t dangerous, individuals may find it safest to frequently check for product recalls.
While many people may be familiar with the dangers of asbestos, few may be aware of just how prevalent the hazardous substance is in homes build before 1970. The carcinogenic substance can still be found in the drywall and insulation of older houses and could be stirred up during renovation projects. With new products constantly being pushed on consumers before the potential dangerous or even deadly side effects of the toxic materials they may contain are fully explored, Ohio consumers deserve to know the risks. Anyone who has suffered due to exposure to unsafe products or materials may benefit from contacting a product liability attorney to explore options for justice and compensation.
Source: gbtribune.com, “3 ways to protect your family from dangerous products lurking in your home”, Brook Spencer, April 15, 2017