Practice Fire Safety This Winter
When the weather turns colder, you inevitably start hearing more news about house fires. Even a small fire can be devastating.
Most house fires are caused by cooking that gets out of hand, according to the National Fire Protection Association. But the second most common cause is materials in the home that catch fire. This often occurs when a heat source, such as a space heater or flying embers from a fireplace, comes into contact with fabric or paper, which then ignites. Once a fire starts, it can move so rapidly that even the best efforts to put it out may fail.
When it comes to old houses, the risks are even higher. The older the wood that a house is constructed of is, the faster it burns. Once flames invade the walls of an old house, they move with frightening speed.
Fire protection in any home is necessary, but even more careful precautions should be taken if your house is older. Here’s how to help ensure the safety of your house and everyone in it.
Smoke detectors. These are the first and best line of defense; they allow you to get out of the house at the first whiff of smoke. The NFPA found that 6 in 10 deaths in house fires occurred in homes that did not have working smoke detectors. Go beyond the federal recommendations and put a smoke detector in every room. Stay on the even safer side by opting for those that detect both smoke and carbon monoxide.
Fire extinguishers. Keep small fires from getting out of control with fire extinguishers that are easily accessible. Choose several fire extinguishers that are light enough for even kids to handle. Make sure they have simple pull mechanisms that don’t require much strength. Look for fire extinguishers that work for various parts of the house; for instance, an extinguisher in the kitchen should be able to handle grease fires.
Install arc-fault interrupters. These ingenious gadgets detect the electrical arcing that occurs when an old wire buried deep in your wall begins to fail. Speak with an electrician about where to install interrupters and how your particular ones work.
Maintain it all. Finally, test everything regularly. Smoke detectors should be tested every month, their batteries replaced every six months, and old smoke detectors replaced every 10 years. Opt to purchase an extra fire extinguisher so your family can take it to the backyard and practice using it.
Have a plan. What if the worst happens and those smoke detectors go off? Have a plan to get out fast. Make sure those on upper floors have a fire ladder that can get them safely to the ground. Designate a meeting place for all family members, and practice your safety plan at least once every six months.
Does all of this sound like overkill? It’s not! Fire safety is imperative year-round for every home. Your home deserves to have the care required to keep it safe and sturdy, but more importantly, your family deserves the peace of mind that comes from knowing they are protected in an emergency.