Practicing Fire Safety in Your Home
Your local news more than likely reports about a house fire just about every night. The one thing you may notice is that the newscaster often says that the home wasn’t equipped with fire detectors, or even ones that worked properly. It is very important that you should have a fire detector installed on each level of your dwelling, this includes outside of any areas where you or someone else may sleep. These detectors should be checked monthly, kept free of dust, should always be equipped with new batteries, and, if it is wired directly into your home’s electrical system, that the light on the detector blinks periodically.
Fire extinguishers are also quite important. You may not think you need one, but should the time come that a fire starts in your home, you’ll be glad you were ready. Where these fire extinguishers are placed is key. Areas most prone to fire, such as the kitchen, garage, or a workshop should all have fire extinguishers. The best type to buy is what is called ABC. This type works best for any type of fire. Having the extinguisher isn’t enough, you must also know how to use it, so familiarizing yourself with how it works is quite important.
Having an exit plan that you and your family all know is a good idea. To do this, create a drawing of your home’s floor plan, and, if possible, include two or more ways that people can exit each room in the house. Practice the plan to make sure all of the people in your home are prepared in case of an emergency.
Many people have a fireplace in their home that they often use when the weather is cold. However, sparks can easily fly out causing a fire. Using a screen is a simple way to prevent the sparks from escaping. You should never store anything flammable next to the fire place, including kindling, newspaper, and lighter fluid. If a stray spark should escape, it could easy ignite a fire if it reaches one of these things. To further ensure your fireplace is safe, have it professionally inspected each year.
Many people don’t realize just how dangerous a clothes dryer can be if it isn’t used properly. You should only run the dryer when you are home, it should only be vented to an outside area, and the lint screen should always be cleaned so that the airway doesn’t become blocked.
Many fires start in the kitchen, so it is very important that you take the proper precautions there. The aforementioned fire extinguisher should be present there, but it should be stored at least 10 feet from the stove. If you should start a grease fire while cooking, do not try to put it out with water. Instead, turn off the stove’s power and put a lid on the pan or, if it’s in the oven, just close the door. Items should never be stored on the stove, because they can easily catch fire. All appliances should always be cleaned and checked to make sure they are in proper working order and, when they aren’t being used, they should be unplugged or turned off.
Lastly, here are a few more tips:
Make sure to keep any flammable items or items that can cause a fire where children cannot reach them.
Do not smoke while in bed. And if you are a smoker, make sure to wet any ashes or cigarette butts before throwing them away to ensure they aren’t still smoldering.
Make sure to check all cords and receptacles around the home to make sure they are in good condition, aren’t worn, and aren’t loose.
A few simple safety precautions can ensure that you and your loved ones are safe in your home.
