Are you planning to use pressure-treated lumber? Do you know what it's treated with and if there are any inherent dangers? Treated lumber is great for decks and for use where moisture and decay are present, but not everyone knows what this wood is treated with, how the pressure process is accomplished or how to handle treated lumber safely. The most common chemical used is CCA, chromated copper arsenate. It's forced deep into the wood in a pressurized tank. In turn, CCA inhibits mold, mildew and insects with arsenic and copper. This gives treated wood its greenish hue. Opinions of its effect on people vary widely. Regardless, it is a strong chemical and should be used with caution. Always handle it with gloves, and wear a dust mask when sawing, sanding or drilling. Wash up when you're finished working and before eating. And keep food from direct contact with picnic tables made of treated lumber. Don't burn wood scraps as toxic fumes might result. When used and handled properly, pressure-treated lumber is hard to beat -- just use caution. And that's the On The House tip for today.