Sometimes it's easy for our senior loved ones to get confused, and it's up to us to take steps to ensure their safety. One responsibility is to remove or safely secure any poisonous household items from their home environment. Have a look at these common hazardous items, and get some valuable tips from Senior Helpers Arizona on removing, replacing, and storing them so your beloved elder can live safely and comfortably in their own home.
5 Common Poisonous Household Items
Several common household items contain hazardous materials, and you can find them in varying forms and concentrations. These items include:
Cleaning Supplies
Many household cleaners contain toxic chemicals that irritate the eyes and cause skin burns. Additionally, look out for bleach, ammonia, detergents, and other corrosive materials.
Pesticides
Inhalation, ingestion, or absorption of pesticides through the skin by an elderly person, can be especially dangerous. Common household pesticides include insecticides, fungicides, and rodenticides.
Herbicides
Herbicides intend to kill weeds and other unwanted vegetation. They can get into the soil, water, and even the air, and can be toxic to humans if not used properly. Common herbicides include glyphosate and atrazine, though other ingredients can be just as deadly.
Medications
Many medications can be poisonous if taken in large amounts or if taken incorrectly. All pills, medicines, and supplements should be kept in a secure, sealed container. Also, regularly check them to ensure they have not expired.
Miscellaneous Household Poisons
Home and auto maintenance materials include dangerous compounds and fluids such as solvents, antifreeze, adhesives, and paints.
Steps to Remove Poisonous Household Items
Once you have identified and labeled the poisonous household items in your elderly relative's home, it's time to take action. Here are a few steps:
1. Dispose of Properly and Legally
When disposing of potentially hazardous items, be sure to follow local hazardous waste disposal regulations. Check with your local municipality to find out how and where to safely discard these materials—it's rarely safe or environmentally sound to pour them down the drain.
2. Replace With Safer Alternatives
Whenever possible, seek out non-toxic alternatives to replace any hazardous items. Moreover, look for natural or biodegradable cleaners, pest repellents, and other non-toxic options.
3. Store Securely
Store any hazardous items securely so seniors, children, and pets cannot easily access them. Additionally, store hazardous materials in a locked cabinet or closet and out of reach. Be sure the combination can't easily be guessed, and that keys are also secure from unauthorized people.
Safety Is Our Specialty
Taking steps to ensure a safe living environment for your elderly loved ones is part of what we do. At Senior Helpers Southern Arizona, we understand the importance of providing the best care for our elder relatives and we're dedicated to helping families throughout Benson, Bisbee, Douglas, Sierra Vista, and Huachuca City do the same. If you need help preparing your home for an elderly relative, don't hesitate to contact Senior Helpers Arizona today. We look forward to hearing from you!