Fires in the home can cause devastating destruction and even fatalities. But there are steps you can take to help avoid these tragedies from occurring.
First and foremost, make sure all smoke detectors in your house are working correctly. Furthermore, inspect all windows and screens for obstructions; these can make a big difference when trying to evacuate during a fire.
Install smoke detectors in each room of your home and test them periodically to confirm they are functioning correctly. Furthermore, add a fire extinguisher to your arsenal; this will help put out any small flames before they spread too far.
Smoke detectors are also useful in detecting carbon monoxide, a potentially lethal gas. To make sure they work optimally, test your carbon monoxide detectors at least once every month.
Additionally, inspect all your appliances regularly – gas and electric heaters included. If you have a stove, clean it regularly to eliminate food crumbs or other items that could catch fire. Furthermore, have your furnace or chimney serviced regularly to guarantee it runs optimally and safely.
Cooking is the leading cause of house fires in America, largely due to people leaving the kitchen while they’re still cooking, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). To minimize your risk, have all ovens, stoves and other kitchen appliances professionally inspected and cleaned regularly; additionally, keep all pots, pans and other flammable materials at least three feet away from any source of heat or flame.
Space heaters are another common cause of house fires, so it’s best to avoid using them when you aren’t home or sleeping. Furthermore, make sure the space heaters are unplugged since they can overheat and start a fire.
Electrical hazards in the home are a serious concern, due to their constant flow of electricity that can quickly get out of hand if not managed properly. You should regularly inspect your electronics, cords and wires for frayed or damaged ends which could pose a hazard to yourself or other people in your household.
If you have pets, it is important to keep them away from cords or other combustible objects that could electrocute them. Additionally, keep them away from anything prone to burning such as rags or paper.
Additionally, make sure your home has an escape plan and designates two exits from each room. Doing this will guarantee everyone knows where to go in case of fire.
Furthermore, you should prepare a disaster kit that contains essential supplies like blankets, water, candles and flashlights. Store these in an accessible place so they can be quickly taken out of the house in case an emergency arises.
