Our homes are precious to us. It’s where we have our family and valuables. So protecting our homes from unwanted circumstances that could potentially cause harm, damage or loss such as fires is paramount and non-negotiable. Fires can start in seconds and completely raze down a home in a matter of minutes. Therefore, it’s important to put safety and preventive measures in place, adhere strictly to fire prevention practices, and have an escape plan if the fire is beyond your control. Here are some safety tips to prevent fire accidents at home.
Never leave your kitchen unattended whilst cooking
It only takes a few seconds for a fire to break out. If you need to leave the kitchen for any reason whatsoever, make sure to either ask someone to watch the food for you or turn everything off altogether until you’re back.
Inspect your heating sources
House fires may very well be triggered if your home heating sources are not working properly. Be sure to always clean out your air conditioning filters, keep your heaters away from anything that is flammable, and have them checked out by a professional once a year.
Store any flammable products correctly
Household cleaners and items such as hair spray or shaving cream may be very hazardous if exposed to a strong source of heat. Always store these safely in a cool area away from any heaters.
Be cautious with your wires & appliances
Before you plug something into a socket, ensure that the wire hasn’t been torn or has a breakage. Worn out or damaged wires can be a detrimental fire hazard and should be replaced as soon as possible. Also, remember that wires get hot when in use, so be sure to check your wire placement and avoid passing them under a carpet or anywhere that could potentially catch fire.
In addition, always turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics. Turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves), equipment or electronics you were using when the power went out. When power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment and cause a fire to start.
Be cautious with open flames
Be cautious in your use of candles and fireplaces. If you feel yourself dosing off, turn off all your candles beforehand, and if you have pets, keep these open flames out of their reach as much as possible.
Install and maintain smoke & carbon monoxide alarms
Place smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms. Test smoke alarms once a month. Change the batteries at least once a year – if your model requires it.
Keep a fire extinguisher or blanket around at all times!
Fire extinguishers and blankets will be your best defence in the event of a fire breaking out. Every family member should know how to use a fire extinguisher, so in case something in your home catches fire, it can be put out as fast as possible. Fire blankets are also very useful for putting out small fires before they become something larger and fiercer.
Unfortunately, sometimes fires may raze on beyond your control or you may only realise it late. At this point, safety of lives is priority. Therefore, you should create and practice a fire escape plan. Include two ways out of every room. Pick a spot to meet outside. Practice the plan at least twice a year with everyone in your household.
Losing loved and precious belongings to a fire outbreak is a devastating experience. So it’s important to put all measures in place and practice to prevent such occurrences.