Safety First - guest post on behalf of AVCRC (asbestos cancer victims' rights campaign)

"DIY Projects and Home Renovations: Safety First

Authors AVCRC - ASBESTOS CANCER VICTIMS' RIGHTS CAMPAIGN

In spirit of National Home Safety Month here is some advice to consider when tackling your summer at-home projects to keep yourself and your loved ones as safe as possible from the hidden danger of asbestos.

Some frequent projects, like replacing tiles, replacing insulation, or removing popcorn ceilings, are all projects to consider calling in a professional asbestos abatement team if you suspect asbestos could be present. 

Asbestos is also a known fire-retardant material, so having asbestos fibers in the siding, shingles, tar paper, and various glues and sealants was not out of the ordinary to help protect the building. This summer, if lifting the old shingles from a roof or re-siding your home is on your summer to-do list, consider researching or testing the products used on your home so you can finish your upgrade safely.

If you believe that asbestos is in your home, it is imperative that you hire a professional asbestos removal contractor to test the materials to confirm if asbestos is present. An asbestos removal contractor can work with you to have the asbestos properly abated from your home so you can get your renovation projects safely underway.

While it’s important and enjoyable to maintain and update your home, it’s more important to take the time to consider your safety. A main component of the Asbestos Cancer Victims Rights Campaign's mission is to educate the public on the dangers of asbestos. Asbestos-related diseases are sometimes unavoidable, but by understanding the risks and locations of this deadly fiber, we can learn how to best prevent exposure. The ACVRC is also fighting to protect those individuals and family members who have already been exposed. In honor of National Home Safety Month, Please sign our petition to protect the rights of asbestos cancer victims."