HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I was googling info for my birds yesterday when I came across a site that mentioned the dangers of teflon of which many bird and hermit owners are already well aware. What I didn't know, and actually should have but the thought never occured to me is that teflon exists in so many more products than just pans and their exposure is equally harmful.From Birdsnways.com: "More and more manufacturers are using teflon in their appliances. These include heaters, lamps, teflon coated bulbs, irons, stove top burners, griddles, hair dryers, etc. When teflon is heated it gives off poisonous fumes which can quickly kill. Recent reports indicate that teflon fumes are generated at temperatures as low as 285 degrees. There have also been reports that using multiple appliances at the same time is additive and increases the amount of teflon fumes in the air.Many of us use space heaters to warm those extra cold areas in our homes. In winter we also use more lamps and bulbs. And of course the windows are closed, reducing ventilation. Teflon fumes are carried on air currents, so a bird does not have to be in the room to be affected. Before you buy appliances, read the labels and purchase the non-teflon brands. Check the electrical appliances you already own. DON'T use teflon near your birds. " Thought this was worthy of sharing with the land hermit community, especially since many young members and college students keep hermit tanks in their bedrooms in close proximity to hair appliances and heaters. Check your appliances and if in doubt, don't use anything questionable where odors or particles can be carried over to your tanks.