With so many different aspects that require maintaining in our houses, it’s common to forget the fundamental methods of maintaining a safe and risk free home. Taking precaution ahead of time is a surefire way to prevent disaster and emergencies in the future. It’s important to invest time in evaluating the safety of your home, and can ultimately save you in the future.
Test Your Smoke Alarm Once a Month– Most people have smoke alarms installed in their homes but over thirty percent of them are actually inactive due to faulty batteries or being improperly wired. To avoid safety issues in the future, test alarms once a month to ensure they’re functioning properly.
Keep Cleaning Supplies and Other Toxic Chemicals Out of the Wrong Hands- It’s very easy for young ones and furry friends to accidentally find there way into the wrong bottles. Designate a container strictly for bottled products and store them at an elevated height where they are out of reach to children and pets. It’s also a good idea to label products yourself or even post a “do not use” sign for extra reinforcement.
Tape Down Any Exposed Wire– There’s nothing worse than investing in state of the art technology only to have pesky wires sticking out in open areas that can cause people to trip and can even become a fire hazard. Using electrical tape, reinforce wires to the floor or flush against a wall so they are out of sight.
Construct a Family Plan – During an emergency, it can be difficult to keep everyone on the same page and collectively establish a safe location. Consult with your loved ones ahead of time and initiate several escape routes, emergency contact numbers, as well as a safe location outside of your home that your family can meet. Preparation is the most efficient way in preventing future emergencies.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy– This may seem like an obvious tip, but you would be surprised at how many people don’t have a fire extinguisher in their home. When purchasing, educate your family on how to properly use them in the instance of a fire. It may be a smart idea to even keep a spare handy in a secondary location should it be necessary for future use.
Inspect All Appliances and Maintain Cleanliness– Faulty appliances are one of the leading causes of house fires. There is a simple solution to this as they are typically the result of neglect or soiled parts. Inspect coils, vents, wires, and lint traps making sure they are free of dust, dirt, and grease at all times. If you believe something looks out of place, don’t be afraid to contact your service provider for a professional inspection to ensure safety and piece of mind within your home.
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