Hidden Chemistry and Physics: Which Everyday Items Can Be Life-Threatening?

April 24, 2020 — Civil Defense

Take care of yourself and your loved ones. After the recent tragedy at Ekaterina Didenko’s party, an important and useful thread appeared on Twitter. Blogger Anatoly Kapustin started it, asking people to share unexpected dangers found in everyday household items.

To recap, on February 28, during Didenko’s birthday party, dry ice was thrown into a swimming pool. The resulting chemical reaction led to the deaths of three people. Kapustin’s thread was an attempt to gather more facts from chemistry and physics that, if known, could help prevent such tragedies. The original post has already collected nearly 700 comments. Here are just a few of the most popular and surprising responses.

Many Posts Are Related to Alcohol

Several users pointed out that mixing certain household chemicals with alcohol, or consuming alcohol in unsafe ways, can lead to dangerous or even fatal reactions. It’s important to be aware of how alcohol interacts with other substances and to avoid risky combinations.

And to Medications

Others highlighted the risks of combining everyday medications with common foods, drinks, or other drugs. Even over-the-counter medicines can have unexpected side effects or dangerous interactions if not used properly. Always read labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.

These examples show that knowledge of basic chemistry and physics can be crucial for safety in daily life. Stay informed and cautious to protect yourself and those around you.