Organic Gases*

Sources: Household products including: paints, paint strippers, and other solvents; wood preservatives; aerosol sprays; cleansers and disinfectants; moth repellents and air fresheners; stored fuels and automotive products; hobby supplies; dry-cleaned clothing.

Health Effects: Eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches, loss of coordination, nausea; damage to liver, kidney, and central nervous system. Some organics can cause cancer in animals; some are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans.

Levels in Homes: Studies have found that levels of several organics average 2 to 5 times higher indoors than outdoors. During and for several hours immediately after certain activities, such as paint stripping, levels may be 1,000 times background outdoor levels.

Steps to Reduce Exposure:

• Use household products according to manufacturer's directions.
  
  
• Make sure you provide plenty of fresh air when using these products.
  
  
• Throw away unused or little-used containers safely; buy in quantities that you will use soon.
  
  
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
  
  
• Never mix household care products unless directed on the label.

* From www.epa.gov