House Fire Damage Prevention Tips
11/1/2021 (Permalink)
House fires take the homes of too many people. Your home is where you build your life. That’s why it is so scary to imagine your home ever suffering from a disaster such as a fire. We here at SERVPRO of Ames want to offer some insight on how to protect your home and your family.
There are some steps you can take to help reduce the risk of fire and smoke damage. Not sure where to begin, or what items in your home pose a threat?
- Test Your Smoke Alarms Regularly
There is a little button on it that you can press to test it. If it beeps weakly, then you need to change the batteries ASAP.
If a fire breaks out and it’s not working, no one is alerted to evacuate.
- Inspect All Your Heating Sources
If your heating sources aren’t working properly, they could trigger a fire to happen. You should have them checked out annually by a professional, to reassure your safety and peace of mind.
Make sure your air filters are always cleaned out. A fire can easily start from debris and dust being too close to a heat source so make sure you clean them regularly.
- Properly Store Flammable Products
Household cleaners and common cosmetic items like hairspray and shaving cream can be hazardous. If they are exposed to a large heat source, they can combust. - Keep Your Stove and Oven Clean
The stove won’t randomly start on fire because of your cooking. It most likely happens because of oils or food that was left on the burner and got too hot. - Always Check Your Dryer
Your lint traps are a hazard waiting to happen when not cleaned properly.
You also need to check behind the machine to make sure lint or little clothing items don’t manage to get back there.
- Maintain All Cords
Make sure that the cord hasn’t been frayed or chewed. If you do notice damaged wires, replace them as soon as possible because this is a huge fire hazard. - Keep Fire Extinguishers Around
Fire extinguishers are your best defense weapon when a fire breaks out. Get them checked regularly, since they can expire.
There is nothing more devastating than losing everything you own to house fires. While we do love to help out, SERVPRO wants to help prevent this disaster from occurring in your home. We'd love to answer any questions you may potentially have. Give us a call at 515-233-4544