When you think about common health hazards around you, chances are your mind wanders to obvious offenders: construction areas with heavy machinery, chemical processing areas with warning signs, or industrial facilities with safety gear.

The truth is that sometimes health hazards lurk in plain sight, which can lead to deadly consequences.

Here are a few you might want to watch out for.

Military Bases and Veterans’ Housing

Before the 1980s, asbestos-containing materials were extensively used in U.S. military buildings, insulation, equipment and infrastructure. In fact, asbestos existed in every facet of these military structures, from barracks to repair shops to ship engines and airplane parts. Veterans employed for long periods on these military installations were constantly exposed to these materials without knowing the severity of the situation.

What is so treacherous about asbestos is that it doesn’t manifest symptoms right away. An individual can work on a military base for many years, exposed to asbestos in one way or another, without any outward symptoms. However, 20, 30, or even 40 years following this exposure, critical illnesses may develop. Cases of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other types can occur due to these minute particles accumulating in your lungs.

If you’re a veteran and are now suffering from symptoms, such as respiratory problems, chest pain, or coughing, it’s important to see your doctor to rule out mesothelioma. However, if you’re diagnosed with this condition, talking to a mesothelioma lawyer Texas is vital, as they can guide you on your situation and explain how you can be compensated without having to take on the burden yourself.

Aging Water Infrastructure and Contamination Risks

Behind the walls of buildings lies another serious health hazard that impacts communities across Texas. These are old networks of water infrastructure contaminated with materials, such as lead.

Aside from lead, aging water infrastructure can also be a source of bacterial contamination, parasites, and chemical byproducts. If communities have old treatment plants, it can be challenging for these facilities to effectively remove all types of contaminants.

If you live in an older neighborhood or have a historic home with original plumbing, it might be a good idea to have your home’s water tested. Water filters can help improve this situation, but first, it’s important to know your local water quality.

Secondhand Smoke Exposure in Shared Living Spaces

Another serious yet underrated threat to your health is prevalent in shared living spaces where second-hand smoke is not controlled properly. These spaces include apartment buildings, multiple-unit housing, office spaces, and even public spaces where smoking is tolerated despite increasing awareness about its harmful effects.

If you want to protect yourself and maintain your health, it’s essential to check out the lease agreements and building regulations before you move into a shared living space. If you’re a tenant in a building where you know secondhand smoke is affecting your space, record instances of smoking and talk to your landlord. It’s equally important to work with your doctor if you notice any personal health issues attributed to secondhand smoke.

Endnote

Taking control of your health means recognizing the threats that lurk around you, even when they’re not immediately visible. Awareness of these surprising “danger zones” can help you identify problems early on and gain access to the help you need.