Fire Prevention

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO preparing to clean a fire damage

Fires are one of the worst events that can happen to a home or business. Often they are unpredictable and sudden. However, there a few things you can do to help prevent a fire. While this doesn't guarantee you will never have one, it drastically lowers your percentage.

 -Inspect Smoke Detectors

When a fire starts a working smoke detector can not only save you money, but it could also save your life. It is recommended to test them monthly and frequently exchange the batteries. It only takes a few minutes to test them and its recommended to completely replace the detectors once every ten years. If your house has more then one floor its best to have detectors on each level and especially one close to each sleeping area.

-Watch Your Appliances

Stoves, washing machines, and microwaves all make our lives easier. However, when not used properly they can easily start a fire. Its recommended to clean these appliances regularly and not to use them when nobody is present.

-Be Extra Safe in The Kitchen

Recent studies have show that over half of house fires start in the kitchen. It’s important make sure you keep a fire extinguisher in close reach of the kitchen. Grease fires are most common in this area. It’s important to know that you must treat a grease fire differently than a regular fire. Never use water to put out a grease fire. Instead try to cover the fire with a heavy metal lid or dump baking soda directly on it.

-Don’t Smoke Inside

We don’t recommend smoking period. However, if you do please step outside and dispose your cigarette butts in a safe place.

-Have A Plan

Even if you follow all these tips there is still a chance your home could experience a fire. It’s smart to have an emergency plan in place. If you don’t already one the best time to make one is now. Choose a safe meeting place outside your house. Establish escape routes from every room of your house. Finally make sure everyone in your home knows where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them properly.