Making Your Garage a Safety Zone
When storing chemicals in the garage, keep them in the original containers and in a locked cabinet or high shelf away from any pilot light. Placing chemicals in soda bottles and food containers can cause the containers to erode, which in turn can cause leaking fumes or liquids, resulting in burns, poisoning, breathing problems, or fire hazards. Do not store chemicals around any toys or sports equipment the family uses. If there is a chemical leak, the toys and equipment will be affected.
Designate an area in the garage for toys and equipment for the kids. But don’t put them on a high shelf where young children will have to climb to reach them and risk falling. Keep the area around the toys safe and easily accessible.
Storing a ladder in the vertical position may seem logical, but it really is not. When a ladder is in the upright position, it can fall too easily on someone or something. It can also be a temptation for young adventurers. In addition, it is also wise to hang sharp tool, brooms, rakes, etc on the wall or store them in a cabinet.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed and the batteries checked on a regular basis. The carbon monoxide detector is important if you will be using the garage for a work area.
Hang a fire extinguisher on the wall where it can be accessible to everyone that may need to use it. Learn together how to use the extinguisher in case of emergency.
Store anti-freeze in a cabinet or high on a shelf. The sweet smell may be too much of a temptation for your little ones or your pets. It takes so little to kill a cat or dog. Another danger to pets is ice-melting salts. Pets can get skin irritations or become sick and vomit or get diarrhea.
One third of American garages lack proper lighting. It is best if there is light above the stairs and work areas as well as the middle of the garage. The bulbs should also be protected with plastic or metal cages in case a ladder or golf club should get in its way.
Treat your garage doors like your house doors. Lock them for safety even if your garage is an attached one.
No propane should be allowed in the garage. In other words, no grilling in the garage. Carbon monoxide can build up to dangerous or deadly levels. Store your grill in the garage, but keep the propane tank at least 10 feet away from the house.
Use cords and power cords labeled for outdoor use. Keep any unused cords in the house to prevent deterioration. Throw away any cords that become frayed or expose wire.
Soak up any spills by using cat litter or sawdust. Once the liquid is absorbed, sweep it up and dispose of it before it is stepped in or becomes a fire hazard.
