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Fire Safety Basics for Your Home
10/22/2018 (Permalink)
Did you know that every year in the United States, over 350,000 house fires occur, adding up to more than $5.5 billion in property damage? Aside from the financial loss, these fires also lead to close to 3,000 deaths and another 10,000 injuries.
Your best defense against a fire is advance preparation. It’s important that each member of your household know how to prevent fires and what actions to take if one should occur.
Start by teaching your kids basic fire safety guidelines at a young age. Let’s also consider these three other fire safety precautions you can practice together:
If there is a fire, each person in the family must know how to react and stay calm—including how to safely get out of the house and where to go once they’re out.
However, creating a plan is just the beginning.
We’ve all heard the saying, “practice makes perfect.” Regular practice of your routine will make you more likely to remember the steps if a fire breaks out.
How many fire hazards would you spot if you were to look through your home? You might be surprised what you find! Take time to go through every room and your outdoor space to uncover these hazards.
- Are your appliances are in good working condition?
- Are your electrical cords intact and not frayed or otherwise damaged?
- Have you overloaded your outlets and/or extension cords?
- Are you using the correct wattage of lightbulbs in light fixtures?
- Have you checked to ensure that electrical wiring is not covered up by rugs or carpet?
Cooking is the biggest single cause of house fires. That’s why it’s important to be especially mindful in the kitchen.
Anyone who’s cooking needs to apprise themselves of basic cooking safety. For example:
- Cooking when tired or otherwise unable to pay attention is not advised.
- It is advisable to always supervise kids and teens when they are cooking.
- Have a lid available when cooking on the stove. If a small grease fire occurs, you will be able to cover and smother the fire with the lid.
- If the oven catches on fire, turn off the oven and keep the oven door closed.
If a kitchen fire spreads, leave the room immediately and close the door behind you.
If your family has experienced a fire and needs help restoring your home, SERVPRO® of Van Nuys South can help! Give us call to learn about our fire restoration services and what we can do for you.