Caution while removing Christmas decorations stored in the attic! Removing your holiday tinsel and lights could carry a hidden health risk of mesothelioma a rare but aggressive form of cancer that is caused almost exclusively asbestos.
It is estimated that around 35 million homes in the United States are insulated with an insulation known as Zonolite which has been found to contain fibers of asbestos. Zonolite is most commonly found in older homes throughout the US but is unlikely to pose a health risk if left undisturbed. However, removing Christmas decorations could cause a disturbance. Zonolite has not been sold for years, but the longer it remains in homes, the greater the likelihood that it will become disturbed and produce dust.
In the past asbestos was once a popular form of ‘safe’ artificial snow. It was mixed with mica and sold in the 1930’s as ‘snow drift’ to be liberally sprinkled indoors around Christmas trees, or used to flock their branches. After the health risks of asbestos came to light, these products were taken off the market.
The EPA recommends that homeowners do not remove asbestos themselves and that it be left intact in its place. Asbestos that must be removed should be removed by a trained abatement professional.
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma contact Legal View to learn about your legal options at 866-9LAW-NOW. Our operators are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. 1-866-952-9669. Visit LegalView for more information about finding a potential mesothelioma lawyer and other information about environmental toxins, including asbestos.
Tags: Asbestos, Mesothelioma
This entry was posted on Tuesday, December 14th, 2010 at 7:31 am and is filed under Asbestos & Mesothelioma. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
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