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Easy Steps to Prevent Fires in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Hayward
6/10/2022 (Permalink)
If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Hayward is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.
So far in 2022, the American Red Cross has responded to more than 20,000 house fires. Unfortunately, that only represents a small portion of the house fires that have actually occurred in the United States.
Having a smoke detector in your home continues to be the best way to prevent death and extensive damage from home fires, but there are other ways to help prevent fires before they even start. Most of these ways are as simple as making sure certain areas of your home are cleaned regularly.
Having clutter in our homes can lead to a buildup of flammable materials and fire hazards. Allowing hallways, stairs and storage areas to fill up with forgotten items can become fuel for a fire.
Did you know that clothing left to build up near a water heater can actually start a fire? Making sure you allow your spaces to stay as open as possible helps minimize that risk. Clear space allows your escape routes to function properly and also leaves less for a fire to consume once it has started.
Overloaded extension cords are another very common reason for home fires. There is no need for your rarely used appliances and products to remain plugged in at all times. Use as few outlets as possible, and refrain from overloading them.
Outside your home, pay special attention to any yard debris that wasn’t cleaned up from the fall season. Large piles of leaves, pine needles or grass clippings close to any appliances or cords can be a fire hazard if they are not raked up on a consistent basis.
Your yard can actually be another area of protection for your home if the fire starts outside. Being intentional with your landscaping allows emergency personnel to tackle a fire before it reaches your house.
Some states like California have actually imposed defensible zone requirements for yards due to the proven effectiveness of intentionally planted trees and plants, but even in other places, this type of landscaping is smart.
Don’t worry, you can still plant those seasonal tulip bulbs you love so much. This philosophy for planting uses the strategic placement of plants and trees to fend off incoming fire.
A good deep-clean of your home every spring can help limit the number of fire hazards in your home as well. Pay special attention to your stove and chimney and consider having them inspected and professionally cleaned every year.
Even a simple dusting can help prevent a house fire. Appliances that have gathered dust over time can become a risk if not tended to. Do your home a favor by taking care of it so you can prevent potential fires.
If you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about our fire damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.