Where Asbestos Can be Found: Naturally Occurring Asbestos

If you live in an area where asbestos occurs naturally, limit your exposure by being aware of where there are or have been commercial operations to mine and process asbestos. Some helpful hints include:

* Use paved trails rather than open soil to hike, bike, walk, or jog; wheeled vehicles such as mountain bikes, dirt bikes, and ATVs are especially likely to throw dust into the air.
* Perform outdoor activities in areas where the ground is covered with mulch, wood chips, sand, pea gravel, grass, asphalt, or rubber.
* Label soil that does not contain asbestos. Never dig without wetting the soil thoroughly to keep the asbestos in the soil instead of the air.
* Do not use a leaf blower. It is better to use water to clear sidewalks and patios, or at least to wet the surface dust down before clearing it with a broom (that should be left outside).
* Prevent the family or pets from tracking dry soil into the house - use doormats or remove shoes. Do not allow the pets to bring in dry dust from outside.
* Keep windows and doors closed when it is windy or when any of the neighbors are digging for construction, gardening, or other purposes.
* Drive slowly over unpaved roads with the car windows closed, and share your concern with local authorities. Get the car washed often and pave your own driveway and walkways.
* Always use wet rags and mops to clean up dust from furniture, floors, and outdoor equipment. Wash the rags before they dry, and never shake a dust mop or rag to clean it.
* Use washable area rugs on easily mopped floors; wash both often.
* Vacuum the carpet often and use a machine with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, and wet down the contents of the dust cup before emptying.