Fire damage can be devastating, but there are several steps you can take to prevent a fire from starting in your home. Here are some A-1PRO Disaster Restoration fire prevention measures:
PRO TIP 1. Install Smoke Alarms
- Placement: Install smoke detectors on every level of your home, in each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas.
- Maintenance: Test smoke alarms monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year or whenever the detector indicates a low battery.
- Upgrade: Consider interconnected smoke alarms, so that they all alert if one is set off.
PRO TIP 2. Install Fire Extinguishers
- Keep fire extinguishers in accessible places, especially in high-risk areas like the kitchen, garage, and near fireplaces.
- Learn how to use them, and make sure other household members know as well.
PRO TIP 3. Electrical Safety
- Avoid Overloading Outlets: Don’t plug too many appliances into one outlet or power strip.
- Check Wiring: Have a licensed electrician inspect your wiring, especially if you have an older home.
- Use Correct Bulbs: Ensure light fixtures use bulbs with the correct wattage to avoid overheating.
- Extension Cords: Don’t run extension cords under rugs or across doorways; use them for temporary purposes only.
PRO TIP 4. Kitchen Fire Safety
- Stay Alert: Never leave the kitchen while cooking, avoid frying food on high heat.
- Keep Flammable Items Away: Keep paper towels, curtains, and potholders away from the stove.
- Use Proper Cookware: Learn how to put out different types of kitchen fires. Clean air fryers regularly.
- Install a Stove Firestop: Automatic fire suppression devices can be installed above the stove.
PRO TIP 5. Heating Equipment Safety
- Space Heaters: Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn (furniture, curtains, bedding).
- Chimneys and Fireplaces: Have chimneys cleaned and inspected annually. Use a fireplace screen to catch embers and prevent them from escaping.
- Furnaces: Ensure that your furnace is inspected regularly and maintained by a professional.
PRO TIP 6. Candles and Open Flames
- Use Alternatives: Consider using flameless candles or LED alternatives.
- Never Leave Unattended: Always extinguish candles when leaving a room and keep them out of the reach of children or pets.
- Clear Area: Keep candles away from flammable objects, including curtains and papers.
PRO TIP 7. Flammable Materials Storage
- Store Safely: Keep flammable materials like gasoline, paint, and propane in approved containers and away from living areas, ideally in well-ventilated, outside storage.
- Limit Quantity: Only store the amount of flammable liquids that you need.
- Use Safely: Always use these materials away from ignition sources and open flames.
PRO TIP 8. Check and Maintain Your Roof and Gutters
- Clear Debris: Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from your roof and gutters. These can easily catch fire from embers of a nearby fire.
PRO TIP 9. Outdoor Fire Safety
- Barbecue Grills: Keep grills at least 10 feet away from the house and deck railings. Clean grills regularly to remove grease.
- Fire Pits: Keep a safe distance from structures and use a fire screen. Always extinguish the fire completely before leaving the area.
PRO TIP 10. Upgrade to Fire-Resistant Materials
- Roofing and Siding: Consider using fire-resistant materials, such as metal, tile, or slate for roofing, and fiber-cement, brick, or stucco for siding.
- Windows: Install dual-pane or tempered glass windows, which are more resistant to breaking from heat exposure.
- Fireproof Safes: Keep important documents and valuables in a fireproof safe.
PRO TIP 11. Regular Inspections
- Have a professional inspection of your home’s fire prevention systems, such as smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems, annually.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of a fire occurring in your home and protect your family and property.