House fires can be devastating in terms of loss of life, injuries, and property damage. As a homeowner, you should take steps to prevent house fires from happening in the first place. Here are some tips that can help.
1. Maintain Fireplaces and Chimneys
A chimney sweep Washington DC can clean and inspect your chimney at least once a year, and it is best to have a professional take care of this task. When it comes to your fireplace, follow these guidelines:
- Don’t let a fire burn unattended.
- Burn only dry, seasoned wood.
- Use a wire mesh or glass fire doors to protect flooring from embers.
2. Keep Fire Extinguishers
Every room that poses a potential fire threat, such as the kitchen or laundry room, should have a fire extinguisher in it. Additionally, make sure that every member of your family knows how to use one.
3. Check the Dryer
Heat from the dryer can cause the lint to ignite. You can help prevent this by cleaning the lint trap regularly, as well as the vent outside the house and the internal duct work, if applicable.
4. Take Care in the Kitchen
Don’t leave food unattended while it is cooking. Clean your stove and your oven regularly, and keep nonedible flammable materials, such as paper or fabric, away from the burners to prevent them from igniting.
5. Be Careful When Smoking
Refraining from smoking altogether will not only reduce your risk of house fires but also help improve the overall health of you and your family. However, if you persist in smoking, do not do so in a position in which you could fall asleep. Never smoke while lying down, and try not to smoke even while sitting.
6. Schedule Smoke Alarm Checks
Smoke alarms are one of your best defenses against house fires, but they won’t do you much good if they are not working. Test them on a regular basis by pressing the button on the housing of the unit provided specifically for this purpose.
There are many more areas of the house that may pose fire danger. Use your common sense as a guide.
