House fires are one of the leading causes of property damage and injury in the home. Every homeowner needs to know how to keep their family and property safe from fire. Use these tips to promote fire safety in the home to prevent disaster.
1. Fire Safety in the Home: Install Smoke Detectors
Make sure your home has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace the batteries in each device twice a year. Install at least one detector on every floor of the house. Place detectors in every bedroom and the hallway outside the bedroom. Having a smoke detector in or near your kitchen is also necessary. Most house fires begin in the kitchen, and a device nearby will alert your family to danger.
2. Don’t Overload Outlets
Plugging too many appliances into an outlet can cause overheating and fires. Don’t overload your electrical outlets. If a breaker trips frequently, assess the number of appliances and electronics on the circuit and see if you can move some devices to other power outlets.
3. Clean the Lint Filter in Your Dryer
To help prevent fires at home, clean the dryer’s lint filter after each use. The heat from the machine combined with an accumulation of dryer lint can lead to a house fire. It’s also important to keep the area around your clothes dryer clear of clutter.
4. Practice Fire Safety Drills at Home
Create an escape plan with your family, so no one panics in the event of a fire. Have regular fire drills to rehearse exiting the home. Make sure all family members can easily access exits. If necessary, install fire escape ladders on upper-floor windows. With practice, everyone will know what to do if a fire breaks out.
5. Fire Safety in the Home: Check Appliances
Take time to inspect your appliances regularly, including microwaves, stoves, refrigerators, and dishwashers. Look for frayed or damaged electrical cords. Keep appliances clean and in good condition, and have any problems fixed promptly by a qualified technician.
6. Don’t Leave Candles Unattended
Candles contribute to a comfortable and cozy atmosphere, but you should never leave them unattended or burning overnight. Use appropriate fire-resistant candle holders that will not easily tip over, and always extinguish the flame before leaving the room.
7. Keep Fire Extinguishers in Easy-to-Access Locations
Fire extinguishers should be located around the house. Check the pressure gauge regularly and purchase a new extinguisher to replace one used in an emergency. It’s also essential to learn how to use a fire extinguisher correctly in case a fire occurs.
Following these tips for fire safety can help ensure your family stays safe. Fire prevention is a significant part of protecting your property, so take the time to verify smoke detectors are operational, and fire extinguishers are available in your home.
Hearthstone Home Inspections offers inspection services to customers in Rhode Island. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to schedule an appointment.