Silica gel is a form of sodium dioxide obtained from sodium silicate. The silica gel which we get in containers is in shape of utterly minute droplets or crystals which seem very sumptious. Also the dainty sachets seem sumptious, albeit they are not to be nibbled. Silica gel has tremendous affinity for water molecules and hence absorbs the dampness. It is capable to absorb dampness as much as 40 per cent of its own mass. So if it is ingested it sucks up water vapour in our alimentary canal and causes stomach upset. When by accident you or anyone you know consumes it, you should drink a lot of water to balance the lost humidity. If crucial signs are observed, you have to contact doctor. But, common silica gel is non-poisonous so you don't have to be afraid if it is ingested by mistake. However there are certain other types of silica gel called indicator silica gel which are change color after absorbing dampness. The object put in to act as an indicator is cobalt oxide, which is poisonous. So it should be rigorously kept away from kids as well as animals. Adults have hardly any risk to ingest silica gel because there are cautions in bold form on the packets, stating, 'Not To Eat'. Silica gel is reusable. If it is full of humidity, you can heat it in sunlight or microwave and it will be dehydrated thus you can utilize it repeatedly. Largely silica gel can be considered as the most harmless drying agent as it is reusable and if at all it is disposed of, it doesn't impart any harm to the environment. When put in with other commodities, it doesn't trickle out of the packs and hence doesn't damage the object. It can be placed virtually with any substance. It is of a lot of use to defend valuables for example leather articles, clothes, lenses of cameras and electronic appliances. Owing to its quality to soak up dampness, silica gel produces inflammatory signs after coming in contact with eyes or skin. In that circumstance, don't worry and wash the affected body part with plentiful water. It will correct the condition. You can utilize silica gel in many ways. It is not only beneficial in protecting your belongings, but is also advantageous in making the air fresh. Place some packs of silica gel in two-three spots of the room and it will keep on taking in the dampness in the surrounding. It also provides a soft perfume to the surrounding so as to increase the sensation of freshness as well as cleanliness. So next time when you see sachets of silica gel in the cases of mobile phones, clothes or medications, don't throw them away. Utilize them to safeguard your other possessions. You can also purchase them as they are not that costly. Therefore make use of this uncomplicated and reasonably priced method to keep your possessions safe and residence cleanly dry.