There are two big questions in the fight against flame retardants: How do I protect my own family and how do I make a difference for the future of our planet?
How to protect your family
- Keep dust levels down by wet mopping and vacuuming with a HEPA filter
- Wash your hands and those of your children often, as hand to mouth contact exposes us to flame retardants in dust
- Purchase baby products and furniture filled with cotton, polyester, or wool instead of polyurethane foam
- Avoid products that use polyurethane foam and have a TB117 label which likely contain chemical flame retardants
- Contact manufacturers to inquire whether retardants were added to product
Some manufacturers that state products do not contain halogenated flame retardants:
- BabyLuxe organic pads and mattresses
- BabyBjorn baby carriers
- OrbitBaby strollers and car seats
- Boppy nursing pillows
What should be done?
Demand toxic-free products for your family
Sample letters at: www.greensciencepolicy.org/safekids
1) Tell the California Bureau that implements the TB117 standard that needs to be updated so products are fire-safe and non-toxic.
Contact: Bureau of Electronic and Appliance Repair, Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation Email: homeproducts@dca.ca.gov Phone: (916) 574-2041 Fax: (916) 574-2043 3485 Orange Grove Avenue North Highlands, California 95660
2) Contact California state Senators and Assembly Members and demand to be able to choose fire safe and non-toxic products for your family. Your voice does matter.
Legislators contact information: www.leginfo.ca.gov/yourleg.html
