- Reiginko
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- Exalted Mythic Member
Poll: Should the chemical Dihydrogen monoxide (DHMO) be banned? [closed]
| You're kidding, right?:
29%
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(10 Votes)
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Total Votes: 34
I am one of many people who are concerned about a dangerous substance known called Dihydrogen Monoxide (DHMO), which is frighteningly common. It is contained in many poisons, and has at its basis the unstable radical Hydroxide. It is colourless and odourless, and can be lethal to humans in very small quantities.
Some of the dangers associated with DHMO are:
* Accidental inhalation can lead to death
* Prolonged exposure to solid DHMO causes severe tissue damage
* DHMO is a major component in acid rain
* Gaseous DHMO causes severe burns
* Leads to corrosion and oxidation of many metals
* Often found in biopsies of pre-cancerous tumours
DHMO is used in various ways in industry, government and even in private homes worldwide. Some of its uses are:
* Industrial solvents and coolents
* In nuclear power plants
* In propulsion systems of older naval vessels
* By elite athletes to improve performance
* In the production of styrofoam
* In biological and chemical weapons manufacture
* As a fire retardant
* In many home-made bombs
* By the Church of Scientology on its members and their families (although the organisation has surprisingly denied this)
* By the -blam!- during rallies
* By -blam!-s and -blam!-s
* In animal research laborities
* In World War II prison camps in Japan, and in prisons in China, for various forms of torture
* In pesticide production
* As an additive to food products, including jarred baby food and baby formula, and even in many soups, carbonated beverages and supposedly "all-natural" fruit juices
* In cough medicines and other liquid pharmaceuticals
* As a preservative in grocery store fresh produce sections
DHMO has also been linked to school violence, and overdosage of DHMO has occured in the past in patients undergoing dialysis treatment for kidney failure.
There is one group that opposes a ban on Hydrogen Monoxide, known as the "Friends of Hydrogen Hydroxide", which argues that DHMO's dangers are exaggerated. Friends of Hydrogen Hydroxide is supported by the Scorched Earth Party, a radical and loosely-organized California-based group.
Fortunately, there is much you can do to minimize your dangers due to Dihydrogen Monoxide exposure. First, use common sense. Whenever you are dealing with any product or food that you feel may be contaminated with DHMO, evaluate the relative danger to you and your family, and act accordingly. Keep in mind that in many instances, low-levels of Dihydrogen Monoxide contamination are not dangerous, and in fact, are virtually unavoidable. Remember, the responsibility for your safety and the safety of your family lies with you.
Second, exercise caution when there is the potential for accidental inhalation or ingestion of DHMO. If you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from a dangerous situation. Better safe than sorry.
Third, don't panic. Although the dangers of Dihydrogen Monoxide are very real, by exercising caution and common sense, you can rest assured knowing that you are doing everything possible to keep you and your family safe.
For more information on this dangerous substance, visit the Dihydrogen Monoxide Research Division's FAQ page.
- Reiginko