Tips to Help Prevent Home Fires

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

We have all seen the pictures; devastation, loss of precious memories, family heirlooms, etc. House fires are, unfortunately, all too common. But there are steps we can take to help lower the rick of fires in our homes. Step one, always install fire and smoke alarms. Preferably with flashing lights, if available. Check them monthly, if you worry that the batteries are weak, install fresh ones as our family is not worth the worry
over a few dollars and a fresh set of batteries. Step two, never smoke in bed. If you enjoy tobacco, enjoy it in a safe place, not in your bed. Step three, keep your grills, and other outdoor cookers at least 5-feet away from the walls of your home and 5-feet away from nearby brush, trees, etc. Step four, have fire
extinguishers stored throughout your home, on all levels. Step five, never, ever, leave a heater on when you leave a room. There are countless, documented stories of floor and portable heaters causing home fires, and in some cases, death. Step six, just as important, never leave candles burning unattended. See step number five. Step seven, if you're cooking in the kitchen, stay with it. Remember, a large percentage of fires originate from the kitchen. Step eight, use child-resistant lighters, matches and keep these items stored securely. Step nine, if an appliance smells strange, call a service tech immediately. Step ten, have a qualified electrician check your house wiring. This can take place annually, or every few
years, but get it done just to be sure. Step eleven, have your chimney services/checked annually, especially if you and your family enjoy cooler weather fires in the house, and while you're at it, have an HVAC technician check your homes heater annually as well. A well tuned heating system is not only more safe, it is more efficient and saves money too.