Fire Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

It’s no secret how devastating a house fire can be, so it only makes sense to do everything possible to keep your home safe and know what to do if you do encounter a blaze. Here are a few key fire safety tips to keep in mind.

Frequently inspect your home’s smoke detectors.

Smoke detectors are extremely important to fire safety and should be installed in every bedroom and on every floor of your home. While many suggest annually changing the batteries in detectors, homeowners should also do a routine monthly check to ensure they are operational, and replace them every 10 years or as directed by the manufacturer. Regardless of whether they’re battery-operated or hard-wired, these more frequent checkups can help keep your home safe.

Have a family fire escape plan. 

Understandably, people can become overwhelmed when a home fire breaks out. Creating an evacuation plan for the event of a house fire starting is a great way to ensure everyone in your household will know exactly what to do and can act efficiently if a fire starts. Plan out exit routes, meeting places and any special provisions your family members may need. Assign one person specific tasks such as gathering pets or contacting family members not in the home to ensure everyone is protected and communication stays consistent.

Know how to operate a fire extinguisher. 

Did you know there are actually several kinds of fire extinguishers available? Because of that, important to get the type you think will be most suited to your needs. Make sure you fully understand how to use it and share the information with your family members, as well. Here’s a summary of the different types of extinguishers. To correctly use a fire extinguister, remember the word PASS:

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low; pointing the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Never leave flames unattended. 

Because open flames are so common in the household, many people forget the extreme dangers they can pose. Whether it is from a cooktop or candle, a flame can spread to other surfaces in an instant, which is why it is vital to never leave one unattended for any length of time. Pets and children can easily cause a fire if left unattended. Always extinguish all flames when you’re not in the room.

Have a plan should a fire break out

No one wants to consider the unthinkable, but you need to have a plan on what to do if a fire breaks out. In addition to the fire escape plan mentioned above, consider what you’ll need to do once the fire is extinguished. It’s important to contact a fire remediation company to assist with the damage left behind from smoke and flames. SERVPRO of Phoenix has a staff of trained professionals to assist you in this time of need. We’re available 24/7 to help you recover from a house fire. Call us if you experience a fire or any other type of disaster at 480-503-2090. We’re here to help!