Most homeowners will store tools, equipment, extra clothing, and other household items in their garage. Homeowner may choose to use their garage to store potentially hazardous chemicals such as gas, paint, cleaners, or other containers that pose a potential threat to the environment or others. At Neighborhood Garage Door Service of Columbus, Ohio, we have a few tips to help you store hazardous materials properly.
Have a Designated Garage For Storage
It is best to have a designated garage that is not attached to your home in which you store hazardous materials. This is best for the safety of your family. Should something occur to cause the materials to leak or ignite, then it won’t be next to your home.
Chose an area on your property that is away from your residence and not close to neighbor’s homes either. Place a free standing storage garage there to keep these potentially hazardous materials such as:
- Gas
- Oxygen
- Paint
- Turpentine
- Oil
- Other chemical liquids
Not sure if it is a potentially hazardous material? Read the can and it will tell you whether or not it is hazardous. It is important to follow the proper storage instructions on the product.
Only Use Original Container for Storage
It is important that all hazardous materials remain in the original storage containers. These containers are manufactured the correct way to keep you and your family safe. Some liquids are corrosive or have a build-up of gas, which requires a specific type of container for storing.
Also, in addition to the containers being designed for the hazardous chemicals, you need the instructions of how to properly store and what to do in case of emergency.
Keep Away From Direct Sunlight
Chemicals are flammable and should be kept away from direct sunlight for storage. This can include propane gas, kerosene, gas, and other flammable ingredients. In general, these types of materials should be kept in cool, dry places.
Store Close to the Ground
Another storage tip is to keep hazardous materials stored close to the ground. This will prevent them from falling off of shelves or tables. It is best to place these containers on a pallet. This will keep it from falling over, but keep it off the floor in case another material spills.
Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets
Wherever you store hazardous materials, it should be out of reach of children and pets. This is why an established storage area is best for these types of materials. You can lock the garage door to keep them out.
Do not keep your pets in the garage where there are hazardous materials. If your pet is to chew into the containers or knock something over, it can result in death.
Dispose of Chemicals Properly
If you need to get rid of old hazardous materials, be sure to dispose of them properly. Check with the waste management in your local area to determine what can be thrown away. There may be a specific facility that accepts hazardous materials.
Here at Neighborhood Garage Door Service of Columbus, OH, we want to make sure you family is safe. We encourage you to stick with these precautions when storing chemicals.
