Preventing fire damage is a lot easier than having to deal with a fire disaster. Prevent fires from starting at home with this checklist.
- Never overload an electrical socket with too many things plugged in at once. These can easily overheat, blow a fuse, and start a fire.
- Inspect electrical cords on all equipment and appliances. Change anything that has frayed and exposed wirings. Sparks can easily ignite from worn electrical cords and can become a very dangerous fire hazard.
- Always unplug appliances that are not in use. Electricity continually passes through appliances that are left plugged in and these can accidentally cause major fire damage.
- Don’t use simple extension cords for appliances that are meant to be plugged in all the time. Refrigerators, VCRs, freezers, clocks, and other appliances that must be left switched on should be plugged in straight into an electrical outlet.
- Always leave enough space around appliances for air to circulate. Never put them inside boxes or enclosed areas. Appliances must be able to ventilate so as not to overheat and cause fire damage.
- Ensure that stoves, refrigerators, TVs, computers, and all other appliances and electronics inside the house have been tested and have passed all safety regulatory standards.
- Never run electrical wirings under rugs or carpets.
- Keep all electrical cords, wirings, and outlets as far away from water sources as possible.
- Stoves, ranges, and grills that use propane gas to cook food must be checked regularly. Any leakages or tears in the gas tank hose must be repaired as soon as they are discovered. These can not only cause disastrous fire damage, but can also cause gas poisoning.
- Keep all kitchen appliances clean. Do not let oil, grease, and other residue to build up on them. These can easily catch on fire if they are not removed.
- Never leave anything in the kitchen unattended. If something else needs immediate attention, it is better to turn off everything before leaving the kitchen. Fire from cooking equipment is the number one cause of fire damage at home.
- Do not make it a habit to place rags, oven mitts, pot holders, aprons, and other flammable materials near heat sources.
- Always use deep ashtrays when smoking. Make sure that cigarettes are completely extinguished before going somewhere else. Never smoke in bed.
- Use candles with proper candleholders. A small gust of wind is all it takes for fire damage to start with a candle. As much as possible, refrain from using candles and use flashlights instead.
- Learn how to use a fireplace properly if there is one at home. Take note of things such as to always use a glass or metal screen, to clean the chimney periodically, and to keep flammable things away from the front of the fireplace.
- Check if the furnishings inside the house are made out of fire retardant materials.
- Place trees and plants around the house. They not only protect the house from the intense heat, but they can also prevent fire from spreading especially if they have high moisture content.
- Place fire detectors throughout the house and keep a fire extinguisher within reach to stop fire damage.
