Fire safety should be a prime concern for all homeowners across the USA. However, most people tend to shrug off fire safety and prevention tips. But you have to remember that fires are unpredictable. They can happen anytime and anywhere. No matter what caused the fire, you have to be prepared to combat it. Following basic fire safety measures at home, can one day become the difference between life and death. So, regardless of who you are or how many people live in your house, you should ensure to follow the fire safety and prevention precautions. Here are some tips to enhance fire safety at home.
Tips for Fire Safety at Home
Install a Fire Alarm and Test It Often
One of the first steps of home fire prevention is to install appropriate fire alarms at home. It is advisable to install one on each level of your property for comprehensive fire protection. Also, it is ideal to install them in or near the middle ceiling, at least 30 cm away from the walls and lights. Typically, there are two main types of fire alarms – ionization and optical. You can connect with any fire safety specialist to help pick the most suitable alarm for your property. Besides installing the right fire alarm, you should often test the alarm to ensure they are not broken. If you find any broken alarm, replace the batteries at once to have peace of mind.
Always Have an Escape Plan
Remember that no building is immune to fire. No matter how efficiently you have prepared for any fire accident, it is always better to have an escape plan in mind. The best escape route is usually the normal way in and out of your home. However, if the main entrance of your house gets restricted because of fire, you need to have other options in mind. It is recommended that various routes be planned, the exit ways of each room be assessed, and the requirements and abilities of each family member needing to escape, such as elderly people, disabled people, pets, and babies.
Look for Hazards Before You Sleep
When you are asleep, it takes even longer to become aware of a fire outbreak. So, it is necessary to ensure that your house is safe from the threat of fire before you go to bed. You can include it in your bedroom routine, as it is always better to be cautious and prevent any possibility of fire. That’s why before you lie down on your bed, go round the house and check if the cooker is off, unplug other appliances, put off and discard candles and cigarettes properly, and turn off heaters. Also, it is a good idea to make sure to keep the exitways free of obstruction and to keep the interior doors shut to slow down the spread of fire.
Don’t Overload Sockets
People often have a tendency to overload sockets, installing extension cables and multi-point sockets without even realizing the risks of overloading sockets. So, it is recommended to use only one socket for one plug. This is because too many output plugs can cause overheating, leading to short-circuit and fire. Also, it is vital to ensure that you never use poorly wired appliances or old plugs, sockets, and cables, which can result in the onset of an electric fire.
Install a Fire Extinguisher
High-quality fire protection equipment can definitely be a lifesaver in times of danger. That’s why you should keep yourself prepared with proper fire extinguishing kits at home. Since different variants of fire extinguishers are utilized for different types of fires, the most suitable one for your home will depend on your environment. However, most homeowners go for a dry powder extinguisher, which is effective in combating Type A, Type B, and Type C fires.
Store Flammable Liquids and Combustible Materials
Flammable liquids can be a big threat around fire. So, you must store them appropriately to ensure comprehensive fire protection at home. You should store these liquids in cool, well-ventilated areas and definitely away from ignition sources. Along with the flammable liquids, you should ensure that electrical and gas cupboards are clear of all combustible and flammable materials. Also, you should try to keep the storage of loose combustible materials external to the premises to prevent any fire outbreak. Besides, you should know that candles, decorative lights, and fabrics are a growing cause of fires. With effective precautionary measures like keeping your candles in a stable and secure holder and away from curtains, you can easily prevent arson accidents.
Conclusion
Now that you are a little familiar with fire safety methods, hopefully, you can keep your home safe. If you have any more questions about your home’s safety against fire, connect with the government’s fire department.
I’m a passionate DIY decor specialist with a deep love for transforming spaces into personalized havens. With years of experience in crafting unique home decor, I thrive on creating stylish and budget-friendly solutions that reflect individual tastes.
