As a Savannah resident, you’re no stranger to the warm climate and historic homes that often inspire DIY projects and deep-cleaning sprees. However, accidents with harsh chemicals or tools can lead to burns, cuts, or respiratory issues. That’s why it’s crucial to know when to seek urgent care. At Your Family Medical Group, we help you stay safe while tackling chores. In this guide, tailored specifically for Savannah residents like you, you’ll learn:
- How to use cleaning chemicals safely in Georgia’s humidity.
- Tips to avoid common home project injuries.
- When to visit Your Family Medical Group for accidents.
Safe Cleaning Tips in Savannah
Savannah residents understand the heat and unique humidity of the southeast. Heat and moisture can intensify chemical reactions and mold growth. Here are a few safety tips to reduce the risk of injuries :
Never combine bleach with standard household products like vinegar or ammonia when cleaning. When combined, these everyday household items create toxic fumes called chlorine gas and chloramine. These fumes can irritate the respiratory tract, eyes, and skin and damage other vital organs, such as the liver. When cleaning with chemicals like bleach, especially after illnesses like norovirus, please open windows for proper air ventilation. Wear personal protective equipment, such as gloves, masks, and goggles.
- Choose Local, Non-Toxic Alternatives
Choose non-toxic cleaning alternatives by opting for eco-friendly cleaners from stores like Brighter Day Natural Foods.
- Store Cleaners Properly
Heat and humidity break down and degrade products. Cleaners should be stored according to their manufacturer’s instructions, usually in temperature-controlled, cool, dry places that are locked away from children.
- Dispose of Hazardous Waste Responsibly & Locally
Disposing of hazardous waste and materials can be tricky, and its disposal depends on the type of material. Places like Autozone, Advanced Auto, and Savannah Tire will accept used motor oil. Savannah Tire will accept old tires. Liquid pain, however, cannot be simply disposed of in the garbage can. Benjamin Moore-Chatham Paint Center will dispose of oil-based paint. If disposing of latex paint cans, leave the can open, fill it with kitty litter, and let the paint completely dry and solidify before disposing it in the garbage. Check Savannah’s local Chatham County Recycling Drop-Off Center for further instructions on hazardous waste material disposal.
Preventing Home Project and Cleaning Injuries
From restoring city historic homes to suburban yard work in Pooler, stay safe with the home project tips:
- Handle Tools With Care
Safety first! Wear cut-resistant gloves when using large knives or saws. If you experience a deep cut that may require stitches, visit one of our urgent care locations around Savannah for wound care.
- Ladder Safety for Savannah’s Uneven Ground
It’s essential to anchor ladders to stable surfaces, avoiding soft soil or uneven cobblestone streets. Falls are one of the top causes of fractures and head and back injuries.
- Avoid Heat Exhaustion
Savannah’s summer heat and humidity can lead to dehydration. Taking breaks, hydrating correctly, and working during cooler hours is essential to avoid a condition called heat exhaustion. Please seek urgent care if you experience mild symptoms like dizziness or nausea while working in the heat.
- Protect Against Mold & Allergens
Wearing personal protective equipment and PPE, like N95 masks, while cleaning mold-prone areas are excellent tools to protect your lungs from mold exposure. Wearing masks during yard work in the spring can also help protect against allergen exposure. Are you experiencing persistent coughing? We at Your Family Medical Group offer allergy and respiratory care locally for residents and visitors in Savannah’s surrounding area.
When to Visit Urgent Care?
Accidents are bound to happen but rest assured, we are here and ready to help! Our urgent care services are always available to provide you with the necessary care and support in case of any home project mishaps like:
- Chemical burns: Rinse with cool water for 15+ minutes, then visit our office closest to you for a professional evaluation.
- Deep Cuts requiring stitches: If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of pressure, we can evaluate and provide stitches and wound care and tetanus booster if needed.
- Sprains or fractures: Check time and office hours for our Ortho Express, which vary by day and office location. If you will need an x-ray, please call our office. We offer x-rays and splinting for falls or tool accidents.
- Mild symptoms of heat exhaustion: nausea, muscle cramps, or dizziness.
Compassionate and Efficient Care With You In Mind
At Your Family Medical Group, we’re committed to keeping Savannah families safe year-round. These tips will help you reduce risks associated with your next home project and spring cleaning. If an accident strikes, we’re here to provide care and get you back on your feet. Stay safe, and remember: Quick action prevents further complications!
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