Did you know that your smoke detectors need to be replaced every ten years? As a homeowner, there are many different steps you can take to keep your family protected from fire. Because your home is the center of your life, we want to help make sure you and your loved ones are safe from fire. In addition to investing in a comprehensive home insurance policy, you can help keep your family safe with a few simple tips and tricks.
Stay Protected in Your Home with These Fire Safety Tips
Check Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home. This means that you should have a smoke alarm in every room of your home, as well as in the hallways. Smoke alarms should be tested once a month and batteries changed every six months.
Create an Escape Plan
In the event of a fire, it’s important that everyone in your family has multiple safe options for escape. So create and practice a fire escape plan that everyone can easily remember. Your plan should include escape routes from multiple areas in your home and a designated meeting place. Practice your escape plan once a month.
Practice Fire Safety
If you are using space heaters, extension cords or power cords, be sure to follow proper safety rules. Never use space heaters near furniture, curtains or other flammable items. Additionally, extension cords or power cords should never be covered by a rug or carpet. And remember, extension cords should be a temporary power solution.
Use Candles Wisely
Candles can be a great addition to any room in your home, but they should always be used properly. When you burn candles always use sturdy holders and keep them away from children or pets. Additionally, burning candles on even surfaces can prevent tipping.
Invest in Fire Extinguishers
Like smoke detectors, fire extinguishers should be kept on every level in your home. While you don’t necessarily need to keep one in every room make sure they are kept in an easily accessible area. You should always have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know how to use them properly. When you use a fire extinguisher, simply remember the word “PASS.”
- P – Pull the pin on the handle
- A- Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
- S – Squeeze the lever slowly
- S – Sweep from side to side
Know the 5 Types of Fire
Fires can be broken down into 5 different types, including:
- Class A: Fires that include ordinary combustibles like paper, wood, cloth, plastics or trash.
- Class B: Fires that include flammable liquids like paint, petroleum oil, gasoline and certain gasses like propane or butane.
- Class C: Fires that involve energized electrical equipment like appliances and transformers.
- Class D: Fires that involve combustible metals like sodium, aluminum, magnesium, and
- Class K: Fires that involve cooking oils and greases like vegetable or animal fats.
Protect Your Home and Family with Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
With the help of a comprehensive home insurance policy and a few simple safety steps, you can give yourself and your family peace of mind when it comes to fire prevention. Not sure what your current home insurance policy covers? Now is the perfect time to review your coverage. Contact our team at Insurance Innovations, Inc. online for more information and be sure to request a quote today.
