We’ve all done it and kept way too many of our personal items and belongings way past their expiration date. It’s not always easy to get rid of your things, but sometimes, it’s crucial for the overall well-being of your home. According to the American Psychiatric Association, individuals “with hoarding disorder have persistent difficulty getting rid of or parting with possessions due to a perceived need to save the items.” This often results in unlivable living spaces that could result in dangerous situations like home fires. To prevent any disasters, here are some common hoarding dangers that you should steer clear of:
Blocked Exits and Vents
Excessive hoarding can result in blocked vents and exits when items pile up high on the ceiling or take over floor space. This can be particularly dangerous as some items may be flammable, increasing the fire risk. Also, exits that lead to safety could be blocked in a fire. Covered vents, on the other hand, cause a lack of oxygen and carbon monoxide to build up in your home.
Poor Sanitation Leading to Health Risks
Excessive hoarding can result in a range of health problems. Its behavior often coincides with poor sanitation, which can foster the growth of mold that will trigger allergic reactions and aggravate existing respiratory issues. Furthermore, it can leave no room in the home for activities such as cleaning and cooking nutritious meals. These two factors alone can weaken the immune systems of those residing there and make them more vulnerable to illnesses.
Increase in Pests
Hoarding creates a breeding ground for pests, like mice, rats, roaches, or spiders, which, within time, can destroy your home and prove extremely difficult to get rid of as they accumulate. A pest infestation can also pose additional severe health and safety risks. They can carry parasites and spread bacteria and pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella through their urine and droppings. Diseases like West Nile virus from mosquitoes, Lyme disease from ticks, and Hantavirus from mice and rats can also be transmitted to humans easily.
To ensure your and your family’s safety at home, it is crucial to steer clear of hoarding hazards. However, in the unfortunate event of a significant issue, you can rely on American Restoration Water & Fire, to assist you through the tough times. As the leading experts in home damage, we collaborate closely with insurance companies to revive your home and its structure to a secure haven once more.
