Basement Safety

[Texasmujer]

Whatever you use your basement for---laundry, storage, or play---here's how to make sure that it's as safe as every other room in your house.

Fire---Never store highly combustible items in your bsement unless they are in a closed cabinet. Keep a clutter-free zone at least 18 inches (about the length of your forearm)
deep around your furnace. Have a fire extinguisher handy. (CO2 extinguishers are best.) Install a smoke detector.


Gases---Check with your housing agent (??--it's county extension agent here in Texas) to see if carcinogenic radon gases from uranium tailings in the soil are a problem in your area. If so, buy a tester; if you find that you have elevated radon levels hire an expert to vent the gases outside. Carbon monoxide is another gas that be deadly, so install a carbon-monoxide detector.

Electricity---Elevate the washer and dryer several inches off the floor to prevent electrical shock in case of flood. Get a furnace shut-off switch installed at the top of the staircase in case there's a problem.

Utility Sink---Washbasins made from plassstic are sturdy, rudt-resistant. and low maintenance. A big sink is good for spacious areas, such s the garage; ceramic behind teh sink protect the back wall. A wall-mounted holder for paintbrushes, a wall mounted paper towel holder, hookd for a ladder, and a clip for a mop are indispensible organizers.

Paintbrush Rack---Magnetic knife holders, sold at kitchen-supply stores, can be mounted to the wall with a few screws and will keep paintbrush bristles from being squashed. Hang the paint brushes bristle-end down for proper drying and to minimize the amount of dust tht colletcts between the bristles. You can also store other metal tools and utensils this way.