Are Mosquito Coils Dangerous?
Mosquito coils are used worldwide as an effective way of controlling and preventing mosquito bites. You will see them, especially, in Africa and Asia where the mosquito problem is larger than in most other places. They are shaped like the burner coil on an electric stove and burn as incense with the smoke keeping the insects away. Depending on the brand, you can pick them up fairly inexpensively and are considered one of the most effective ways of staving off the little biting things. As to being dangerous, they can be. It would depend on the type of coil and if it is used properly.
Proper Use
To use a mosquito coil you would light it from the outside end of the coil and it burns inward. Like using a candle or incense you want to make sure it is on a non-flammable surface like a plate, as well as on a sturdy surface so they will not get knocked over. These coils burn very hot and fires are one of the reported dangers. While many people do use them indoors it would be best if it was for outside use do to the accumulation of smoke. Being in an enclosed space with anything burning is not too healthy for you to begin with so if you are going to burn them inside you would want some ventilation.
The Dangers
Fire possibilities aside, the main dangers that come from mosquito coils are the chemicals used in making them. Essentially, you are burning pesticides and those are designed to kill things. They are a poison, so you can imagine that depending on how strong the chemicals in the coil, breathing in the smoke could pose some health issues. The chemicals used in many coils are considered a powerful lung carcinogen. So powerful, that there are reports of the factory workers in Thailand making these coils not going five years without developing lung cancer. The most commonly used active ingredient and the ones to look out for are different types of pyrethroids. Some imported coils have this as an ingredient, but the EPA has banned its use in the United States. Justly so, since it is an extremely effective pesticide and designed to kill.
Mosquito coils can burn from 6 to 12 hours depending on size and brand name. Though it is recommended for outdoor use, there are many who will burn them in their home and this is risky. According to Worldofchemicals.com burning one coil can release the same amount of particulate matter as burning 75-137 cigarettes. That does put it into perspective, doesn’t it?
Alternative Coils
As with most products, it never hurts to shop around. Most mosquito coils in the States do not contain the same chemicals, or amounts, that the overseas brands do. If you are careful about ordering online and know where the product is coming from, you are on safer footing. You can also buy a natural mosquito coil that is made up of mostly essential oils that are good repellents, without all the risks of those made from pesticides. These are considered the best and safest, so if you are concerned about the dangers of mosquito coils, go all natural. They are as effective as the other brands with less risk and worry.
Me? I’ll stick with my cordless essential oil diffuser.