Tip Sheet

1. Check the tag on any furniture that contains foam to see if it complies with TB 117 (California Technical Bulletin #117): If you find the tag, the foam has been treated with flame retardants.

2. Call the manufacturer when you're buying new furniture: the sales clerk may not know if what you're buying has been treated or not.

3. If possible, reupholster your couch or replace the foam in your couch cushions if you want to be sure they're free of flame retardants.

4. When you vacuum, make sure to get the couch: it may help keep chemicals out of your dust.

5. Get rid of old junk, especially electronics: if they're gathering dust, they may be increasing the amount of chemicals in your home.

6. Health Canada advises dusting your house frequently: researchers believe that dust is a major route of exposure to flame retardant chemicals

7. Make sure to have an escape plan in case of fire: fire can spread fast and smoke can contain toxic chemicals, so it's important to get out quickly.

8. Wash your hands frequently: You will be less likely to transfer the chemicals in products into your food and mouth.

9. Look for furniture and other products that are stuffed with wool, feathers, polyester and cotton instead of polyurethane foam.