bec's blog of zanesville ohio real estate

ARE YOUR CHILDREN AT RISK??

If your deck, children's play set, or picnic table was built prior to 2004, it could be made with CCA wood.  To order a test kit go to ewg.org/reports/poisonwoodrivals/orderform.php and you will be able to order a kit ($20 to$35) to find out how much arsenic is in your wood and the soil surrounding.  Then do the following:

Remove or replace structure (or at least the highest traffic area, such as handrails, steps, or floorboards) with a non-arsenic alternative. Such as cedar and recycled-plastic composite lumber.

Seal any wood you can't replace with a penetrating stain or sealant.  According to the EPA, these stains and sealants reduced the amount of loose arsenic for up to12 months.  However, sealants lose their effectiveness after six months.

Wash your hands and your children's hands after exposure.  Especially before eating.

Cover picnic table with a plastic table cloth when you go camping.

Never sand or pressure wash your deck.  This could spread the harmful around your yard.  Use soap and water instead.

Keep kids and pets off rough wooden surfaces.  CCA wood splinters can increase the risk of exposure.