House fires can do tremendous damage to your home and also put your household's lives at risk. It's crucial to practice fire safety and prevention, so you and your house members are prepared in case a fire does happen. Taking steps to prevent fires from occurring helps reduce the risk of having to deal with these fires. The following checklist can help you practice fire safety and prevention.
Make an escape plan
One of the first things on your checklist should be an escape plan. You and your household need to know where to go if a fire occurs. Keep in mind you might need to have two different escape routes available. Establishing these escape routes and practicing your escape plan can help ensure everyone in your house knows how to get out safely.
Practice fire drills twice a year
Run through a fire drill at least twice a year, or more often if needed, with your household. During these drills, practice your escape plan, including escaping via different routes or getting to safety from unexpected places you might be in when a fire breaks out, such as the basement or attic. Running through these fire drills is an important part of making sure your house members stay safe if a fire occurs.
Purchase a fire extinguisher
Having a fire extinguisher in your home provides a handy way to put out smaller fires before they become bigger ones. You might keep your fire extinguisher near your kitchen in case of cooking fires or close to an exit, so you can grab it easily. Maintain your extinguisher to make sure it's in good condition at all times.
Test smoke alarms
Make a habit of checking your smoke alarms weekly to make sure they work. Every level in your home should have at least one smoke alarm. Check and/or replace batteries in your smoke alarms at least once a year, which helps ensure these alarms will go off in case of a fire.
Identify fire hazards
Check for fire hazards in and around your home, such as outlets that aren't working or frayed wires. Move flammable objects a few feet away from fireplaces, and clear out your lint filter to prevent dryer fires. Remove as many fire hazards from your home as possible to prevent house fires from occurring.
About the Author
Richard Powers
Born and raised in Lynn, Massachusetts, Richard has been a successful Real Estate Agent, specializing in the Greater Lynn area for 28 years. He was awarded the prestigious Centurion Award for 19 years in honor of his outstanding number of listings and sales and was the recipient of numerous Diamond Awards for exceptional sales and service.
In his spare time, Rich enjoys golfing, hiking with his dogs and practicing Karate, in which he holds a second-degree black belt. He also enjoys volunteering for various animal rescue groups with his wife of 33 years and is especially dedicated to supporting Faithful Companions, a local non-profit group that helps families in need receive life saving veterinary treatment for their cherished pets.
The next time you need an experienced Real Estate Agent, be sure to give Rich a call. His professionalism and knowledge of the Real Estate Industry are unrivaled.
