Did you know that United States fire departments respond to fires every 63 seconds and that every year there are more than one million fires reported across the nation? These are scary numbers but there are steps that you can take to protect your home and business from becoming one of these statistics. Learning how your family (or employees) can prevent fires is critical in lowering the risks of fire. Here are a few tips from our experts, the American Red Cross and the National Fire Protection Association on how you can prepare for and prevent home/work fires.
Prepare –
- Install Fire/Smoke/CO Detectors on every level of your home or office. There are specific requirements for homeowners and building owners so be sure to check with your local fire department that you are in compliance with the law.
- Test your System. Regularly test to be sure your smoke, fire, heat or CO detectors are working properly. Many people choose the changing of the clocks in the fall and spring while others use the start of the new year as a time to check.
- Plan for Emergencies. All family members should know what to do in the case of an emergency. Plan an escape route for each room in the house and where a meeting point may be outside. Also discuss calling 911 in emergencies.
- The American Red Cross suggests this course of action strongly. If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.
Prevent-
- Do not smoke indoors. Most buildings have non smoking requirements but be sure that if employees or family members are smoking outdoors that they are disposing of the remains properly and not throwing them in trash cans or discarding in dry grass that could easily catch fire.
- Keep grills away from structures. Many homeowners have a grill on their deck or patio but be sure it is a good distance away from your building or home.
- Keep basements clean and clutter away from boiler burners.
- Be sure to clean out dryer vent filters each time you dry a load of clothing.
- Never leave kitchen appliances unattended at home or in a work break room. Always stay in the room.
- Avoid burning candles.
- Keep matches safely hidden from children.
- Avoid using an older space heater, as it may not have adequate safety features compared to newer units. When purchasing a new space heater, ensure it is UL Listed and pay attention to the safety features.
- Have your chimney cleaned regularly if your use it during the winter heating months.
- Check electrical cords and outlets for fraying or damage.
- Be aware of your home’s electrical capacity.
For more fire prevention tips check out the Red Cross Prevention page online and call Wayne Alarm for all your fire prevention systems.
