Practice Home Fire Safety
Sometimes in the news, you’ll hear about a tragic house fire that takes lives and destroys the home. While you may think this could never happen to you, it is smart to practice home fire safety. Use these tips to reduce the chances of a house fire starting and to keep your family safe if it does.
Get Rid of Frayed Cords
One easy way to prevent fire risks is to discard frayed or worn electrical cords. When the insulation wears off a cord, the exposed wire becomes a fire hazard that can ignite anything flammable that it touches. Inspect the electronics and extension cords in your home and if any are not in good condition, get rid of them.
Install and Test Smoke Alarms for Home Fire Safety
Smoke alarms are a basic necessity for home fire safety. There should be at least one smoke alarm on every level of the home and they should be placed inside and outside of each bedroom. In addition, put a smoke alarm near the kitchen and laundry room. Test them every month to make sure they are working and replace the batteries twice a year.
Strategically Place Fire Extinguishers
If a small fire does break out, you may be able to put it out quickly with a fire extinguisher. Keep fire extinguishers easily accessible in the kitchen, laundry room, and garage. Check the type of fire extinguishers and make sure it is appropriate for the type of fire you would most likely to encounter in these locations. Also check the expiration dates, because they do not last forever.
Escape Ladders on Windows
If a house fire does occur, you need to have two possible exits from each room. For second-story rooms, an escape ladder may be necessary for a safe exit. Have escape ladders ready for all windows that are high up off the ground.
Have a Home Fire Safety Escape Plan
Have a serious conversation with your family about what to do if a house fire breaks out. Explain that the first priority should be getting out safely, without gathering any belongings. Establish a meeting place and instruct whoever gets there first to call 911.
Roesner Real Estate Inspections provides home inspection services to West Houston and the surrounding areas. Contact us to schedule an appointment.