After the first lecture, I'm glad to have the opportunity to start assessing what toxins are in my home. I didn't know the answers to all of the questions, but was able to look most of them up online. For example, I know my apartment was built in or before 1978 because it's rent controlled :) We definitely do not have a basement in San Francisco and while we do have an attached garage it is an open carport. We don't have in-unit washer/dryer and this might be the silver lining I never considered for that. I have a cat, so there are no rodents to be found and few insects. That said, I'm sure my kitty and her accessories come with many other toxins. We steer away from air fresheners and strong chemicals, but do use candles and incense and occasionally some strong disinfectants.
I was surprised to realize we do not have a home radon test, but will probably invest in one soon. It was nice to read about San Francisco's water quality and how protected it is. Naturally, whatever toxins we use in California are seeping into it but I'm hopeful that since it starts as snow melt it's not as bad as Flint. Overall, I'm glad this was assigned so I can check back on how I approach every day toxins and start making smarter choices (like actually washing my fruits and vegetables)!
See below for the Home Environmental Health and Safety Assessment Tool:
Hi Rachel!
ReplyDeleteIts great to hear your apartment is pretty safe in the city. I know the city can have some more interesting areas or rundown neighborhoods but being safe is really just about being aware of your environment your in. I think this assessment will also help us down the line, like whenever you move or you buy a house, because you will be more inclined to think about those dangerous exposures and toxins.
Great job :)
Alex
Very lucky you have a rent controlled apartment - the apartment sounds like a great place! You make a good point about our chemicals seeping into the water we drink - during my undergrad days, I started to boil my water before drinking. I am unsure if it helps at all but anything is better than anything! (Just like washing your fruits and vegetables)
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