In most cases, you may only have two minutes to escape a home once it's on fire, so it is essential to have a plan in place and understand what fire safety looks like. There are multiple ways you can protect your home and your family and remove the need for fire restoration services, and Kiser Construction is here with the top six tips.
Install Smoke Detectors
Smoke alarms are your home's first line of defense and can be the difference between catching fire before it starts. Aside from your kitchen, the alarms should be on all levels of your home, including inside and outside each bedroom. And if you have alarms already in place, you should do regular checks once a month to see if the batteries need replacing.
Know How to Use Your Extinguisher
Each floor of your home should also have an extinguisher, and having extras is recommended. Keep them in spaces that are easy to locate and remember, like under sinks or with your cleaning products. Education on using them can save precious time in an emergency, so getting familiar with the instructions is recommended.
Check Your Appliances
Outdated appliances and electrical outlets are prone to electrical fires. If you have obsolete or older outlets, be sure to have them replaced by an electrician. A few ways to identify if they need replacement are:
● Melting or scorched plastic
● Heat coming from the outlet
● Loose connections
● Buzzing or popping sounds
● Frayed wires
You can also ensure that the bulbs installed don't exceed the wattage recommendation per the manufacturer. And never use power strips for appliances like refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, or vacuum cleaners because they can overheat if on for long periods.
Clean Out Your Gutters
Debris can build up quickly in your gutter system, and dry pine needles and leaves are both ignitable, so you don't want to leave these in there for an extended period. The recommended time is to clean the gutters every one to three months, and if you don't have any trees nearby, twice a year should be enough.
Avoid Overloading Circuit Breakers
It is easy to forget and overload circuit breakers, especially during the holiday season. And just because you can add countless extension cords and plugs to an outlet doesn't mean it's the best option. An overloaded circuit breaker or outlet can be a significant fire hazard, so if you have too many items to plug in, consider adding more outlets to your home.
When You Need Expert Results, Kiser Construction is Here for You
Your home and family are a top priority, and keeping them safe from fires starts with this helpful list. Having a set plan in place is also recommended, and if you require mold removal or restoration services, Kiser Construction is your trusted source in Minnesota. We specialize in remodels and storm damage repair that our customers are raving about and are here to support you through the process step-by-step.
Our company has been a trusted provider since 2003, so message us online or call us at 763-633-2010 today.