Improperly Secured Chemicals: A Long Island Home Insurance Liability Issue?

Many American households could boast at having multiple household cleaning products in their cupboards. However, the danger of these chemicals is often ignored. Each year, emergency room staffs across the country deal with accidental exposure and ingestion of some very nasty substances. Consider how often your children bring friends home with them after school. Each play date has the potential to become fatal with cleaning agents and chemicals readily available. Such liability issues may be covered by your Long Island home insurance, but it is far more important you take steps now to address these hazards:

• Do not build a collection of cleaning products. Only keep in stock what you use on a regular basis.
• Keep chemicals in dry and cool environment that is not accessible to kids or pets. A sturdy lock could help keep out the curious.
• It is a good idea to always keep chemicals in the original container to avoid confusion later on.




• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use. Remember to use products only for their intended purpose.
• Never mix the chemicals.
• You should avoid all open flames when working with chemicals. This includes smoking.
• Clean spills up immediately. Wear appropriate protective gear, including goggles or gloves.
• When it is time to dispose of any hazardous material, be sure to utilize the local collection program.

By safely handling and putting away chemicals, cleaning products, and other dangerous substances, you may be able to prevent injuries, damage to property, and possibly a Long Island home insurance claim. Where are your hazardous materials stored?

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