We all like to envision our homes as safe havens where we and our families can feel secure. Nevertheless, there can be hidden dangers lurking without us even knowing it. To make sure that this is not the case, consider these five simple tips on how to keep your home as safe and as healthy as possible:
Water Quality
Tap water may seem harmless enough, and in most developed parts of the world, it usually is. However, there are hundreds of miles of underground pipework through which water travels before it reaches our homes, and despite our local authorities’ best efforts, things can and do sometimes go wrong. By installing a home water filtration system, be it for regular tap water or rainwater, your family will be well protected from any parasites, toxins, or other contaminants.
Air Quality
It is a common misconception that indoor air is cleaner than outside air. Depending on various internal and external variables, the level of indoor air quality can fluctuate significantly. Proper and regular ventilation is required to limit the number of potential pollutants, toxins, and airborne particles.
You can do this through natural ventilation (e.g. opening windows and doors), by mechanical means such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.. Houseplants are another easy way of purifying the air to a certain extent.
Deterring Burglars
The majority of home invasion attempts are opportunistic by nature. This means that burglars will not take unnecessary risks if they can avoid them. It also implies that if your home seems to be an easy target (e.g. secluded area, dark street, open door and windows, etc.), some house invaders may attempt to break in at some point.
According to ex-criminals, the top ten home invasion deterrents – from most to least effective – are CCTV cameras, barking dogs, strong doors, running TV, locked UPVC windows, cars in the driveway, overlooking property, fences, gates, and motion activated flood lights. A combination of these on display should keep your house safe from a break in
Humidity and Mould
Mould is found anywhere in nature, including our homes. It is inevitable that at some point it will find its way inside, as it can enter through open windows, stick to our clothes and shoes, or infiltrate via the AC system. What we can do, however, is to not allow it to thrive once it is inside. Mould loves humidity and will grow on most damp surfaces and environments.
If this has become a problem in your environment, you can control the level of humidity in the air by making use of dehumidifiers. In addition, it pays to fix leaky pipes, drafty windows, and roofs promptly. You will need to make sure that our washing and drying machines are in a properly ventilated area, and that the airflow in bathrooms and kitchen is adequate.
Dangerous Pests
Some household pests are more hazardous than others (e.g. cockroaches, termites, lice, bedbugs, ticks, etc.). It is crucial to know what are the most common pests that live in your area, how dangerous are they, and in what environments they thrive and reproduce. As a general rule, a hygienically clean, tidy and clutter-free home is more likely to be pest-free.
However, even the cleanest house can still harbor all manner of creepy crawlies. If you encounter any of these critters, using targeted solutions like bed bug sprays for specific infestations can help, but it is often safer to call a specialist and, if needed, have your home fumigated.
By knowing and acting on these simple tips, you can transform your home into a proper haven for yourself and your family.
