5 Poisons to Avoid in the Garage

By Jeany Miller

Household hazards are everywhere within the home itself. Under -sink, bathroom and even refrigerator contents all pose their own dangers. What most individuals ignore, however, are potential poisons contained within the garage. These can put adults, children and pets at risk for substantial health problems.

#1 Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons, such as gasoline and lighter fluid, are common items found in the garage that place children in the greatest danger for poison. Dr. Randy J. Goldstein of Las Palmas Medical Center states, "Exposure to hydrocarbons is common in modern society. The highest rates of morbidity and mortality result from accidental ingestion by children younger than five years." As a result of the fumes and vapors absorbed into the lungs from hydrocarbons, aspiration pneumonitis commonly results. Other complications include pulmonary inflammation, hemorrhages, cardiac dysrhythmia, and skin burns. To prevent exposure to pets and children, parents are encouraged to purchase hydrocarbons in small quantities and store them in hard-to-reach places.

#2 Antifreeze

Antifreeze is another poisonous fluid commonly stored in the garage. Pets and children are known to drink this agent, as they are drawn to its sweet smell. However, the risk for serious health complications or even death is enormous with such an occurrence. Primarily, antifreeze attacks vital organs like the heart and kidneys. As with hydrocarbons, adults are urged to purchase these in small quantities, store them in secure containers and discard extras. Spills should be cleaned immediately.

#3 Pesticides

Pesticides are also often stored in garages and include those chemicals intended to kill unwanted pests, insects and fungi. Inhalation exposure to these can be problematic in a number of serious ways. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), pesticides are used by 91 percent of American households. The CDC also estimates that 80 percent of pesticide exposure occurs inside homes. Several methods exist to prevent these from becoming poisonous:

Follow the instructions, as provided on the product label
Vacate the premises with household pets for at least several hours after using indoors pesticides
Utilize insecticides with organic ingredients
Find alternative ways to eliminate unwanted pests and insects

#4 Batteries

Along with miscellaneous car parts, garages often house various batteries of all sizes. These are particular points of interest for many children, especially under the age of four. The problem is that batteries contain a myriad of dangerous chemicals, including lithium and manganese dioxide. Both agents are known to cause severe burns inside and outside of the body. While small batteries like those found in watches and hearing aids are more likely to be ingested by children, large batteries actually have the potential to cause greater harm. These contain powerful electrical currents that can transmit across soft tissues and cause severe injury. In essence, batteries are extremely poisonous to children and pets and should be treated as such. When adults finish using these items, they should be removed from the home. Active batteries should be securely stored and never left unattended in the open.

#5 Paint

Oil-based paints become poisonous when large amounts are ingested into the stomach or airways. Paints are also dangerous to the eyes and skin, as they can irritate, burn and produce rashes. This is largely attributed to the heavy metals, such as lead, mercury and cobalt, found in most paints. To this end, kidneys and lungs are known to be particularly susceptible to paint poison, and some organ damage is irreversible. To preserve the integrity of paints, they should be removed from the floor and maintained in storage cabinets with secure locks. While paints are being used, adults should wear breathing masks, and pets and children should be removed from the area. Unused paint portions should be discarded immediately, and all brushes and trays should be thoroughly cleaned to remove residue.

Sources: http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1010734-overview

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002751.htm

http://www.aerias.org/desktopmodules/articledetail.aspx?articleid=133

http://www.drgreene.com/qa/battery-safety?pagination=1