We’re always here for you when you need us, such as after a fire or water damage event. But because fires endanger not just your home, but also your life, we definitely believe in the principle of prevention. Follow these tips to prevent a house fire and keep your family safer.

  • Install smoke alarms on each level of your home, especially around sleeping areas.
  • Test your smoke alarms once per month and change the batteries as needed.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, and next to your outdoor grill. Know how to use it.
  • Make sure window locks function appropriately, so that you can unlock them and climb out if it’s ever necessary to do so.
  • Make sure that kids know how to call 911 and that they know your address. Tell them that the most important thing is getting out of the home first, then calling for help immediately.
  • Never leave the oven or stove turned on and unattended.
  • Don’t wear loose or dangling sleeves and other clothing when cooking.
  • Clean your stovetop regularly to remove grease buildup.
  • Never place items, other than pots and pans, on top of your stove. If an eye is turned on accidentally, a melting spatula or flaming hand towel can lead to disaster.
  • Install baby gates and an oven latch to keep small children safe.
  • Always check the oven and stovetop before leaving the house or going to bed.
  • Clean out your dryer’s lint trap each time you use it. Lint buildup is another common source of house fires.
  • If something seems “off” with your home’s electric wiring, get it checked out before it becomes a problem.

Of course, sometimes accidents happen to matter what you do to prevent them. Develop a fire safety plan with your family, and practice it until everyone is comfortable with following directions. Each family member should know what to do in the event of a fire.

If you have small children, take them to visit a local fire station when allowed, or watch YouTube videos about fire safety. Younger kids are often afraid of firefighters if they haven’t ever seen one before, and sometimes hide during a house fire – exactly what you don’t want them to do.

And if the worst does happen, call us first thing. We can help you clean up any smoke or water damage and assess the next steps that you need to take.