‘Tis the season for at-home entertaining – meals, friends, relatives, entertainment and yes, even fires. Fire fighters respond to calls of close to 400,000 home fires every year, according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA). Several fires develop in cold weather months as more individuals bring warmth into their houses with things such as traditional candles or holiday lighting. These fires create over 15,000 civilian fatalities or injuries annually.
Fire-proof the holiday season using these ideas that safeguard your family members and your house:
Go Flame-less
Reduce your threat of fire by using flame-less candles. Even though they look and smell like real candles, they do not pose the same safety risks. Scentsy Wickless Candles provide the illumination and ambiance of traditional candles without the smoke, soot or an open flame. With more than 80 scents to choose from and 100 designs of warmers available, there’s a fit for almost every smell personality and home decor style.
Avoid Outlet Overload
Do not overload electrical outlets and extension cords with holiday lights or some other electronic devices. Plug one heat-producing appliance, like electric blankets, irons, toaster ovens or coffee machine, into a receptacle outlet at a time. Consider minimizing outlet overload by selecting battery-powered options when they’re offered.
Cook With Care
Unattended cooking is the most common cause of U.S. house fire injuries, as reported by the NFPA. Don’t roam too far from the kitchen area when you’re frying, grilling or broiling meals. If you’re boiling, baking, or roasting, be sure to look at it frequently and use a timer in order to prompt you once it’s finished. Plug microwave ovens and other cooking appliances directly into an outlet. Don’t ever use an extension cord for a cooking appliance, as it can overload the circuit and create a fire. home inspection miami
Be Prepared
Establish a fire-safe residence by putting in fire extinguishers and smoke alarms. Make use of a portable fire extinguisher to save lives and property by putting out or controlling small fires. Store extinguishers where they could be quickly accessed in locations with great fire threat, specifically in the kitchen area or near the garage door. Smoke alarms need to be installed in each room of the residence, except for the kitchen area, and must be tested once every month.
Possess a Plan
Establish a fire escape strategy with the members of your home, and practice this regularly. You need to always have a couple of ways to exit each room, often a door and a window. Practicing in a casual setting will help little ones feel confident in carrying out your strategy in an emergency. Choose a landmark outside, such as a tree in the neighbor’s yard or the mailbox, as a meeting area for your family.
Following these fire safety suggestions will help ensure your memories of this fall and winter season are full of good friends and family members, not flames. read more