(NC) We all love a clean, tidy house, but did you know that some of the cleaning products we use every day could be exposing us to harmful substances? In fact, improperly used or stored household and automotive chemical products are among the top products responsible for injuries and deaths in children under the age of five.

Even a small amount of a chemical product can be harmful to a child. Bad tastes and odours often do not keep children away from household chemical products.

Many of us use household chemical products in and around our homes and garages. These include cleaning liquids and powders (such as laundry and dishwasher pods), polishes, drain cleaners, paint thinners and windshield washer fluids. All these products can be dangerous if not handled or stored properly.

Health Canada reminds everyone to use household chemicals safely by following this simple four-step process:

1. Read and understand the label before you buy or use a household chemical product. Carefully follow the directions, paying close attention to hazard symbols and cautionary statements.

2. Use household chemical products carefully. Never mix household chemicals together. Check that child-resistant closures are working properly, but remember that child-resistant doesn't mean childproof. Make sure containers are closed when they're put down or not being used. Teach your children to recognize the hazard symbols and know what they mean.

3. Store household chemical products safely in their original containers and make sure all safety information is readable. Keep all household chemical products safely locked away where children cannot see or reach them. Keep flammable products in a separate building if available, such as a shed, or store according to label instructions.

4. Dispose of leftover household chemical products safely. Check with your city or town for safe disposal guidelines. Buy only what you need and never bury or burn household chemical containers or pour contents down the drain. Never reuse empty chemical containers.

You can find more safety tips for parents and kids online at Canada.ca/health

www.newscanada.com