Do Your Part to Prevent Fires in Your Home: Tips on Fire Prevention & Safety

One of the most difficult things to experience as a homeowner or renter is damages caused by fires, whether is wildfires or accidental fire inside the home. Besides fires, homes can be damaged by extreme weather like high winds or heavy rain, these natural disasters and extreme weather conditions can’t always be anticipated.

When it comes to fires, California residents are no stranger to wildfires and understand the severe impact they can have on our homes and health. Although the Golden State is filled with beautiful sunshine and breathtaking views of nature, the climate and windy conditions in California make it more susceptible to wildfires. Additionally, house fires are also common accidents that lead to unexpected damages in your home.

Protect your home and family and learn of ways you can prevent a fire from starting or spreading into your home. If you are unsure of what steps to take, here are some fire prevention tips you can take to prevent a house fire.

Test Your Smoke Detector

Be sure to have smoke detectors installed throughout your home. Homeowners should have a smoke detector in every room and hallway of their home. Smoke detectors should be tested every month and if it appears to not work properly, simply replace the batteries. When the detectors make little chirping noises every few minutes, that usually means it needs new batteries. These easy and quick maintenance steps could easily help save lives in case of an emergency.

Fire Emergency must-haves for fire safety

Be ready for the unexpected, every home should carry items that can prevent, or stop a fire in its tracks. An unexpired fire extinguisher should be in a place that is easily accessible and everyone in the household should know where the fire extinguisher is. There are different classes of fire extinguishers, but the most common that every home should have is one that is a multipurpose fire extinguisher for classes A, B, and C. This fire extinguisher will put out wood, liquid, and electrical fires. Having easy access to a fire extinguisher can increase the chances of fire escape and survival, not to mention saving the irreplaceable items inside your home. Fire extinguishers should be inspected at least once a month for rust or damage. Another great item that a homeowner can own is a fire blanket. Fire blankets are used to cover a small fire and cutting off its source of oxygen which will stop the fire from spreading. Having these two items in your home will help prevent home fires or prevent the spread of fires.

Watch Your Appliances

In many households, there are appliances and electronics in almost every room. Whether it be a television set in a bedroom or a toaster oven in the kitchen, appliances can be found nearly anywhere in your home. The most common area where appliances are found is in the kitchen. While the kitchen is where delicious meals are created, it is usually the place where many house fires usually begin. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 49% of reported residential fires from 2014-2018 were caused by cooking. So, when you are in your kitchen cooking a meal, never leave an appliance unattended. Try to minimize the amount of flammable material near these appliances, such as a curtain or other material.

The NFPA also reported that the leading causes for residential fires after cooking included heating, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials. Take some time to inspect each room in your household for any material or appliances that might pose a fire hazard. Avoid overloading sockets with several electronic gadgets in rooms to prevent an electrical issue. For homeowners with fireplaces, keep the area clear of flammable items, even if you do not use your fireplace. Properly clean and store any outdoor appliances, like grills, when it is not being used to prevent any outdoor fire around your home as well.

Stay Prepared, Have a Plan

Fires can spread in a matter of seconds, leaving you very little time to think and only to act. If you do not already have a fire escape plan in place, spend some time building an emergency plan with your family. Discuss the best possible escape routes for every room so each person is prepared regardless of where they are in your home. Families with younger children can teach them how to “Stop, Drop, and Roll” and to crawl on their hands and knees if they see smoke. Think of some designated areas away from your home that you can meet each other in case of separation. In the event of any emergency, always be sure to dial 911 immediately.
If you are a homeowner in the greater Sacramento region that has experienced fire damage to your home, our team at Good Life Construction is here to help you rebuild. We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with unexpected situations such as a house fire or wildfire. Our unique Fire Restoration service includes a team of experts that is dedicated to restoring your home. We also know it can be a draining process to deal with insurance and mortgage companies, so our experienced professionals at Good Life Construction are here to relieve you of this process. If you would like to learn more information about our Fire Restoration team, visit us online at www.GoodLifeConstruction.com or give us a call at 916.970.3535.