While it is important to regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, the BC Centre for Disease Control warns the public to take proper safety precautions.
In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, British Columbians have stocked up on cleaning supplies, and added extra steps to their cleaning routines. However, some people are not doing so in a safe way.
According to the BCCDC, the Drug & Poison Information Centre (DPIC) has seen a 60 per cent spike in calls related to exposures to household cleaners and disinfectants since mid-March. Back in March, the province had advised residents to stay home and to put measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“Fortunately, we haven’t seen any serious injuries, but ingesting or improperly mixing cleaning chemicals can be fatal,” says Dr. Tom Kosatsky, the medical director of Environmental Health Services at BCCDC.
“We’re glad to see the people of B.C. taking measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but please keep in mind that cleaners and disinfectants are powerful substances and need to be used safely.”
The BCCDC notes that a number of callers have used cleaners at full-strength, even when the label specifies to dilute it with water. Similarly, other callers have mixed cleaners that should not be mixed. Of particular concern, it notes that mixing bleach with vinegar, ammonia or rubbing alcohol can create toxic gases.
In a typical week, the DPIC line receives 9 calls related to adults’ exposure to bleach. However, from March 8 to April 11, the average was 24 calls per week. While most calls have been related to adults, the BCCDC stresses that it is important to keep cleaning products where children cannot access them.
The BCCDC offers the following tips for protect yourself and your family while cleaning:
- Follow all label directions.
- Never mix chemicals.
- Never use bleach or other disinfectants on food.
- Rinse fresh vegetables and fruits with clean potable water.
- If cleaning a food surface with bleach, dilute the bleach with water or rinse the surface with water after cleaning.
- Always safely store or dispose of cleaners when you’re done using them.
More information about cleaning and disinfecting safely is available here.
If you or someone you know has been exposed to a disinfectant or sanitizer, do the following first aid measures and call your local Poison Control Centre: 1-800-567-8911.
- Inhalation: ventilate the area and seek fresh air
- Eye exposure: flush eyes with water for 5-10 minutes
- Skin exposure: flush skin with water for 5 minutes
- Ingestion: drink ½ cup to 1 cup of water.
