Children are especially vulnerable to asbestos exposure — and the scariest part is that they often have no idea the danger is there. If your home was built before the 1980s, here’s what every parent should know to keep their kids safe.
Why Are Children More at Risk from Asbestos?
Asbestos exposure is linked to serious illness, and children face unique risks that adults don’t. Kids will play on any surface and pick up bits of material without a second thought. They’re simply unaware of the potential danger hiding in older walls, roofs, and floors.
This is especially true in homes built before the 1980s, where asbestos-containing materials were widely used in construction. Deteriorating walls can release asbestos fibers into the air — which is why more families in Georgia are turning to asbestos removal companies like Environmental Services of America for help.
Children’s lungs are still developing, and because their lungs are smaller than an adult’s, they have a higher surface area to volume ratio. They also breathe faster, which means they can inhale more airborne fibers in a shorter amount of time. And because young children put their fingers and objects in their mouths, they may unknowingly ingest asbestos particles if they’re in a contaminated environment.
Where Might Your Child Encounter Asbestos?
Even if you’re careful at home, asbestos can be present at your child’s school or a friend’s house — especially in older buildings. Children are more susceptible to respiratory illness in general, which makes any exposure more serious than it might otherwise be.
How Can You Protect Your Children from Asbestos?
Knowledge and awareness are your best tools. Here are some practical steps you can take right now:
- Talk to your children about what asbestos is and explain that they should never touch damaged walls or deteriorating parts of a building, even if the space looks safe.
- Visit your child’s school and ask whether the building contains asbestos — and find out what safety measures are in place.
- Be mindful of products you buy for your children. Asbestos has been found in certain children’s makeup and crayons, so do your homework on product safety.
- Don’t let children play near abandoned homes or structures.
- Share what you know with neighbors and friends — awareness within your community makes everyone safer.
When Should You Call an Asbestos Removal Professional?
If you live in an older home and you’re concerned about asbestos, it’s worth a professional evaluation. Protecting your children from asbestos exposure now can help prevent permanent damage to their developing respiratory systems. Environmental Services of America offers asbestos removal services in Georgia and the surrounding region — our team handles the process safely so your family doesn’t have to worry.
Source: E.P.D.
Have questions or concerns about asbestos in your home? We’d love to help. Reach out to us at services@es-america.com and we’ll point you in the right direction.