Fires are a serious threat to all families. However, it is possible to reduce the risk of fire and similar concerns by taking the proper precautions. Below is some information to help you protect your family from harm.
Smoke Alarms
To ensure that your family will be aware of a fire as soon as possible, you need to make sure you have functional smoke alarms installed throughout your home. In general, you need to place a smoke alarm outside each sleeping area and inside any sleeping areas where doors are usually kept shut. Make sure that every story of the home has at least one smoke alarm.
Different types of smoke alarms are also available. However, two main varieties of smoke alarms are most common: stand-alone alarms and interconnected smoke alarms. While stand-alone smoke alarms can alert you of the presence of smoke in the immediate area around them, interconnected smoke alarms will be activated when any alarm in the system detects smoke.
Make sure all of your smoke alarms are working properly by testing them at least once each month. Replace the batteries annually, and replace the entire smoke alarm once every ten years. In addition to performing proper maintenance on your smoke alarms, it is also important to watch for recalls. For example, certain smoke alarms manufactured by Kidde were recently recalled due to problems with smoke detection.
Fire Extinguishers
In the case of a fire, having a working fire extinguisher on hand is essential. Several different types of fire extinguishers are available to deal with different types of fires. For example, a water-based fire extinguisher is appropriate for most ordinary fires involving wood, cloth, and paper. However, for fires involving electrical equipment, a dry chemical fire extinguisher is preferred. It is also possible to purchase a multi-purpose fire extinguisher that will work on a variety of different types of fires.
After stocking your home with the appropriate fire extinguishers, remember to watch for recalls. For example, certain fire extinguishers previously on the market were recently recalled by the manufacturer Kidde.
To use a fire extinguisher effectively in the event of a fire, simply remember the acronym “PASS:”
- Pull the fire extinguisher’s pin.
- Aim at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle to begin extinguishing the fire.
- Sweep from side to side until the fire is extinguished.
CO Alarms
Carbon monoxide is a lesser-known hazard that can enter your home and put your family at significant risk. This poisonous gas is produced by furnaces, gas stoves, fireplaces, grills, and engines. If it builds up inside your home, your family may experience a range of symptoms, including upset stomach, vomiting, weakness, dizziness, headache, and confusion. In the worst cases, CO poisoning can be fatal.
A CO alarm is an alarm that detects the presence of CO in your home and alerts you so you and your family can evacuate. To prevent CO poisoning, place this alarm in a location where it’s alarm will be loud enough to wake you if it goes off while you are sleeping. Check the batteries regularly, and replace your CO alarm once every five years.
Damage related to fires and other catastrophes can be extensive. Contact Philleo Agency Insurance today to make sure your home is protected.
Post Excerpt
Both fires and carbon monoxide poisoning pose a serious risk to your family. Find out how to protect your home from these hazards.
