The garage is arguably one of the most overlooked sections of any home. The space that was initially meant for automotive activities and a safe spot to park your car has now become a work and play area. We are continually moving in and out of the garage, oblivious of the health and safety hazards it poses. It is imperative to safety proof the garage, to reduce the risk of injuries and other fatalities. Here are a few potential dangers in the garage, and informed suggestions on how to counter such risks.
Improperly stored chemicals
The garage has almost involuntarily become the storage area of pesticides and other gardening chemicals, automotive chemicals, pool products, paints, household cleaning products, automotive chemicals, and antifreeze. These chemicals are very hazardous; especially antifreeze which has an inviting scent and sweet flavor that might be tempting for children and pets. Some of these chemicals are even stored in food and beverage containers, which may be corroded by the chemicals, therefore giving room for leaks and spills. This may result in poisoning, potential respiratory complications, and fire hazards.
Quick fix
Just like you would medicine and other household products, store your garage chemicals in their original containers and cabinets, away from the reach of children and pets. Label all the containers clearly and fasten the lid until air-tight, to prevent leaks and spills.
Toys and tools clutter
Most parents decide to keep their children's excess toys in the garage to keep the house clutter-free. This doesn't necessarily solve the problem because you are merely moving the clutter from one place to another. This will encourage children to spend most of their time in the garage playing hide and seek and rolling around under the car for the thrill of it. This might expose them to dangerous chemicals and injuries due to the disorganized state of the garage. Also, when you incline your ladder horizontally against the wall, any playful child will not resist the temptation to climb, and it is only a matter of time before they tip over. Other gardening tools such as rakes and mowers may cause accidents.
Quick Fix
Schedule at least two days every month to clean and organize your garage. Mark out a designated corner to store your children's bicycles, rackets and other toys. Place any tennis balls and other small toys in a steady bag to prevent them from rolling into unsafe spots in the garage.
Also, install strong hooks on your wall, slightly above the ground to store your ladder and other tools horizontally and get them completely out of the way.
Dim Lighting
Even with a well-organized garage, the danger of accidents and fatalities is still imminent if you do not have proper lighting. Most garages have a small light fixture at the center of the room, which leaves most corners dark and dangerous. You might trip and a tool you forgot to store or over leaked chemicals and incur serious injuries.
Quick fix
The garage should be the most well-lit room in your home. Install more light around designated corners and protect them with a dense mesh, so that you do not hit them with tools and ladders as you work. You can also place lights or reflective tape on the steps, to make them more visible.
Improperly stored chemicals
The garage has almost involuntarily become the storage area of pesticides and other gardening chemicals, automotive chemicals, pool products, paints, household cleaning products, automotive chemicals, and antifreeze. These chemicals are very hazardous; especially antifreeze which has an inviting scent and sweet flavor that might be tempting for children and pets. Some of these chemicals are even stored in food and beverage containers, which may be corroded by the chemicals, therefore giving room for leaks and spills. This may result in poisoning, potential respiratory complications, and fire hazards.
Quick fix
Just like you would medicine and other household products, store your garage chemicals in their original containers and cabinets, away from the reach of children and pets. Label all the containers clearly and fasten the lid until air-tight, to prevent leaks and spills.
Toys and tools clutter
Most parents decide to keep their children's excess toys in the garage to keep the house clutter-free. This doesn't necessarily solve the problem because you are merely moving the clutter from one place to another. This will encourage children to spend most of their time in the garage playing hide and seek and rolling around under the car for the thrill of it. This might expose them to dangerous chemicals and injuries due to the disorganized state of the garage. Also, when you incline your ladder horizontally against the wall, any playful child will not resist the temptation to climb, and it is only a matter of time before they tip over. Other gardening tools such as rakes and mowers may cause accidents.
Quick Fix
Schedule at least two days every month to clean and organize your garage. Mark out a designated corner to store your children's bicycles, rackets and other toys. Place any tennis balls and other small toys in a steady bag to prevent them from rolling into unsafe spots in the garage.
Also, install strong hooks on your wall, slightly above the ground to store your ladder and other tools horizontally and get them completely out of the way.
Dim Lighting
Even with a well-organized garage, the danger of accidents and fatalities is still imminent if you do not have proper lighting. Most garages have a small light fixture at the center of the room, which leaves most corners dark and dangerous. You might trip and a tool you forgot to store or over leaked chemicals and incur serious injuries.
Quick fix
The garage should be the most well-lit room in your home. Install more light around designated corners and protect them with a dense mesh, so that you do not hit them with tools and ladders as you work. You can also place lights or reflective tape on the steps, to make them more visible.
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