According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of seven people per day died from a house fire between 2011-2015. Don’t become a statistic and use these fire safety tips for the home to keep your family safe.
Use These Fire Safety Tips for the Home
1. Have Working Smoke Detectors
Fire experts cite smoke detectors as a leading factor in saving lives during a home fire. It is important to have detectors in each bedroom, in the hallway outside the bedrooms, and at least one on each level.
Whether they are battery powered or hard-wired into the home, a detector can give you and your family an early warning so you can get out before the fire spreads.
2. Don’t Overload Electrical Circuits
Each electrical circuit in your home has a maximum load it can safely carry. When you add multiple outlet strips and extension cords to a single network, you stand a chance of overloading it which can lead to an electrical fire. If you find that you need more outlets in a particular room, have a professional electrician come in and add a new circuit.
3. Put Away Matches and Lighters
Fire is fascinating to children who don’t understand how dangerous it can be. Keep matches and lighters in a locked container that children cannot reach.
4. Clean Your Fireplace or Wood Burning Stove
When wood burns, it leaves behind a layer of creosote which is highly flammable. A stray spark can cause a fire inside the chimney or flue. It is important to have your wood-burning stove or fireplace professionally cleaned at least once a year.
5. Use Caution With Candles
Always place candles away from flammable materials before lighting them. Use proper holders to prevent the candles from toppling over. Never leave candles unattended.
An even better option is to purchase electric candles that have a realistic looking flicker. These create the same ambiance with no fire hazard.
6. Clean the Dryer Vent
Lint can build up on the walls of your dryer vent. This lint can ignite due to a build-up of combustible gases and heat in the vent. Have a professional clean the vent to remove lint build-up.
Homebuyer’s Inspection Service provides home inspections and related services to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Contact us to book an inspection.