Fire Safety in You Home
Fire Safety in Your Home
Art Glasgow, Peck-Glasgow Insurance
The peril of fire claims many lives and damages property each year. While the number of residential fires have declined in recent years due to better construction building codes, updates to older homes and better fire protection, it is still prudent to be prepared for a fire in your home.
Develop an emergency escape plan:
1. Create a plan that includes escape routes from each room of your home.
2. Practice your plan with all members of your household.
3. Review the plan at least twice a year when all members of the household are present.
4. Update the plan when you make changes like adding a finished basement or rearranging of furniture.
5. Post the plan on your refrigerator where family members will see it regularly and commit it to memory.
Install and check smoke alarms:
1. Install both battery and electric-wired smoke alarms on every level of your home, including basements, attics, and outside each bedroom.
2. Change smoke alarm batteries twice a year.
3. Test smoke alarms once a month if not more often.
4. Replace battery operated smoke alarm units every 8-10 years.
Obtain safety ladders:
For multilevel homes safety ladders are invaluable. You can find them at most local building supply stores in compact styles that can be installed under a window. If possible, install one in every bedroom.
Choose the right Fire Extinguishers:
Different fire types require a specific class of fire extinguisher. Identify the areas in your home where a fire is most likely to occur, and then store the correct class of extinguisher nearby. Especially consider extinguishers for your kitchen, work areas and grilling locations. Share locations and how to use each extinguisher with each member of your household. Talk with a professional to make sure you have the proper class of fire extinguisher for your needs.
Practice fire safety and live in the confidence that if a fire occurs you and your family are prepared. For more information on fire safety and creative ways to educate your children, visit www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/.
In conclusion, make sure you speak with a Peck-Glasgow Insurance professional to help you properly insure your home and its contents. Peck-Glasgow Insurance offers quality Alabama Homeowner Insurance, Property Insurance and Dwelling Fire Insurance.