Oil Wells and Their Negative Effects on the Environment and Living Close to Them

Posted by STN Admin on May 26, 2023

Although fossil fuels are still an important part of providing power for vehicles and the electrical grid, they come with many negative effects in terms of the environment and those who live close to them. With studies that date back decades, the negative effects of being near oil and gas wells have been properly noted.

But what are the negative effects that homeowners might expect if they live near oil or gas wells? The answer begins with the contaminants found in such areas and how they can affect the health of you and your family.

Air Pollution

In one study by Stanford University, researchers discovered that those living within 2.5 miles of an oil or gas well experienced a higher degree of air pollution. This higher level resulted in greater negative health effects for those who lived nearby. Particularly those who lived downwind from the oil or gas wells themselves.

Disrupting Wildlife

Although all human activity influences wildlife, oil and gas wells are particularly notorious for changing established patterns of wild creatures. This includes disrupting the nesting and breeding of a wide range of species.

Such effects are magnified on wildlife that migrates. Having to pass near oil and gas wells not only changes their well-established patterns of travel, but the negative health effects also influence their breeding and the raising of their young. The result is a greater risk of lower wildlife populations all due to the presence of fossil fuel-producing sites.

Negative Health Effects

The measured effects ranged from mild, allergic symptoms to more serious health concerns. Being located near oil and gas wells may increase the likelihood of heart disease, and premature birth, and augment the negative effects of asthma.

For those susceptible to allergies and respiratory illness, the presence of oil and gas wells means increased exposure to toxic particles in the air. From carbon monoxide to volatile organic compounds or VOCs, the adverse health risks increase when exposure to these chemicals occurs.

Climate Change Concerns

The increased amount of pollutants, particularly greenhouse gases, has a negative impact on the Earth’s ability to regulate temperature. The result is a warming climate that may lead to catastrophic effects in our lifetime.

Both in terms of where the oil and gas are produced and how they are used means detrimental effects on our climate. Lowering greenhouse gas emissions starts by reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Other Effects

The most widely known is when oil spills occur. The effect they have on wildlife can be devastating. And while the big spills get all the media attention, it is the more frequent smaller spills and contamination of surrounding environments that do the most damage over time.

Add to this side effects such as increased light pollution, the odorous smell, and the generally dirty nature of oil and gas wells and you have a substantial effect on the environment. The only recourse is to begin the move away from petroleum-based products which will reduce the presence of oil and gas wells.

Contact Brickley Environmental Today

With numerous dangers facing your home or business, calling the professionals at Brickley Environmental is a good place to start. We offer our knowledge and experience along with the tools to detect and remove infestations of various types. The services provided by Brickley Environmental include the following.

Asbestos Abatement
Mold Remediation
Lead-Based Paint Removal
Demolition
Hazardous Waste Removal

If you are facing any of these issues, call Brickley Environmental today. Our friendly, courteous staff will take your call and answer your questions, so you can make the best-informed decision about what to do next. At Brickley Environmental, we are here to help you.

How to Detect and Protect Your Family from Carbon Monoxide

Posted by STN Admin on March 31, 2023

Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. Every year in the US, around 420 people die and over 100,000 people visit the emergency department due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide, or CO, is generated by furnaces, lanterns, gas ranges, portable generators, burning firewood or charcoal, and from gas vehicles in operation while inside the garage.

Exposure to carbon monoxide is completely preventable if you take some simple steps. While CO is generated from a wide variety of sources, they all involve gas vapor and the air being trapped inside.

Symptoms of CO Poisoning

CO poisoning is insidious because carbon monoxide has no odor nor can it be seen. Plus, the symptoms may be mistaken for something else such as the beginning of the flu or a bad cold. The symptoms of initial CO poisoning include the following.

Headaches, Nausea, and Dizziness
Shortness of Breath and Fatigue

If exposure to CO is at high levels, the symptoms will include confusion, vomiting, loss of coordination, and finally loss of consciousness and death.

If you see such symptoms, the first step should be to go outside or open a window and let in the fresh air. That will disperse the CO gas which allows for a full recovery. If you feel better outside than standing inside, you will need to check your home for the presence of CO.

Get Medical Attention Immediately

If you suspect that you or your family has suffered from CO poisoning, go to the emergency room. While most cases of CO poisoning will fade over time, there are instances where permanent damage may occur unless treatment is rendered. This means getting a blood test to show if CO is present.

But the best way to deal with CO poisoning is to prevent such situations from occurring in the first place. This means taking the right action to reduce the chances that this event will occur.

Steps to Take to Prevent CO Poisoning

There are some simple steps you can take to prevent CO poisoning. Most of what follows requires no purchase and simple planning to keep carbon monoxide from building up.

Install CO Alarms to Warn of Carbon Monoxide Buildup
Regularly Inspect Home Heating Systems
Operate Portable Generators and Charcoal Grills Outside the Home
Do Not “Warm Up” a Vehicle’s Engine Inside the Garage
Open the Fireplace Damper Before Starting a Fire
Keep the Fireplace Damper Open Until the Ashes Cool

Having CO alarms are important for gas leaks that otherwise may go undetected. Place them near gas appliances and your gas heating system. But also place them in other parts of your home just in case the gas builds up in another location.

You can prevent CO poisoning inside your home by taking these simple steps. Always play it safe when it comes to gas-operated appliances and your vehicles. Learn to identify the symptoms of CO poisoning and know what to do if you suspect that you or your family has been exposed to carbon monoxide.

Contact Brickley Environmental Today

Asbestos Abatement
Mold Remediation
Lead-Based Paint Removal
Demolition
Hazardous Waste Removal

How to Protect Yourself and Your Home from Air Pollution

Posted by STN Admin on February 15, 2023

While most people think of air pollution as something that comes from power plants and factories, the truth is that the more threatening form of air pollution comes from inside your home. You can protect your family from both forms of air pollution with a few easy-to-learn steps.

Indoors

Reducing indoor air pollution starts with the products you purchase for your home. What you may not realize is that the very furniture and flooring may contain pollutants that may harm you and your family.

Avoid Products with Scents: Cleaners, air fresheners, and other products that contain scents may contain particles that interact with the ozone and create formaldehyde. Use natural cleaners if possible, such as lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, and plain water to reduce air pollution in the home.

Green Label: Look for the green label when purchasing carpets, cushions, and products that have adhesive elements. Such products may contain formaldehyde and residues of dangerous chemicals that can create indoor air pollution.

The same is true for furniture and other furnishings that are made from composite wood such as particle board or even plywood. Such materials use adhesives that may contain trace amounts of harmful chemicals. Look for such products that are compliant with green or safe standards.

Reduce Ozone: Certain products such as laundry water treatments, fruit and vegetable washers, and hair and facial applications emit ozone into the air. Look for products that are ozone-free and will not contribute to pollution indoors.

Ventilate: If you are painting, gluing, or using caulk, or other adhesive try to perform the work outside the home if possible. If you have no choice, such as painting a room, then open the windows, turn on the fan, and ventilate the area.

Outdoors

Although the threat may be less today compared to a half-century ago, there are still plenty of sources that cause outdoor air pollution. What follows are a few tips to protect your family and home in case outdoor pollution rises to dangerous levels.

Air Purifier: An air purifier can trap particles such as smoke while cleaning the indoor air from dust and other items. Remember to change out your air purifier’s filter when needed so that it works at maximum efficiency. Air purifiers are best used in bedrooms and living areas.

Central Air Conditioning: A central air conditioning system is not only more energy efficient for cooling the home compared to window units, but the air filter can also trap many of the particles that otherwise make it into your home. Be sure to change the air filter every few months or when needed. Otherwise, it may tax the unit to the point of requiring repair.

Windows Closed: This may seem to be an obvious response, but shutting the windows should be the first thing you do in case outdoor air pollution becomes too dangerous. Use portable fans to circulate the air inside the home.

With these tips, you can protect your home and family from both indoor and outdoor air pollution. A few commonsense steps will reduce indoor air pollution and limit outdoor air pollution from entering your residence.