With the arrival of spring, Avon Fire & Rescue Service is warning householders across the local area to be careful not to mix cleaning products when having a spring clean.
As concentrated cleaners and scented products have become increasingly popular, the fire service is urging people to take care and avoid mixing cleaning products directly or indirectly.
The dangers of mixing cleaning products are not to be taken lightly. Certain combinations of chemicals can release chlorine gas, which can cause respiratory problems and even be fatal in high concentrations.
Other products can react to produce harmful vapours, and some can even create explosive reactions.
Chris Bengey, Station Manager and HazMat lead for Avon Fire & Rescue Service, said: “People often think that cleaning products will be twice as effective when mixed together, but careless cleaning can cause serious harm.
“Even when they’re safe alone, mixing commonly used cleaning products can sometimes produce harmful fumes and even cause chemical burns on contact with skin.
“I urge you to read and follow the instructions on products and always use them as they are intended to be used.”
Top tips for a safe and sparkling home include:
- Get to know the ingredients in your off-the-shelf products so you can avoid creating toxic fumes from the intentional or unintentional mixing
- Keep chemicals in their original containers with their warning labels
- Always dispose of chemicals in accordance with the instructions on the container
- Do not pour chemicals into the same container or use one cleaner right after another, as it may create harmful gases or additional chemicals that have been linked to various health conditions
- Be sure to wash off one cleaner before using another so that there is no mixing of chemicals
- Always open windows where possible to allow for natural ventilation
- Always store harmful chemicals away and out of reach of children
- If you have chemicals and are unsure of how to dispose of them, contact your local council, who should be able to offer advice – do not pour them down the drain unless they are designed to be disposed of in that way.