Each year, there are approximately 358,000 house fires that cause property damage, injuries, and even death. National Fire Prevention Month is observed every October and serves as a reminder for the actions you can take to prevent a fire in your home. Our real estate agents want to make sure you and your family stay safe and recommend these fire prevention tips. 

1. Clean Your Air Filters
   A dirty air filter is more than a drain on your home's HVAC system; it also puts your house at risk of catching on fire. When your filter is clogged with debris, air can't properly pass through. Your unit will work harder than it otherwise would due to the dirty filter, putting it at risk of sparking and causing a fire. Replace your home's air filter approximately every 3 months (more often if you have pets or allergies).

2. Keep Your Appliances Clean
   Dirty appliances are another fire hazard. Old food particles can cause your stove or oven to flame up and catch on fire when you're cooking. Remove coil tops if you have an older stove to ensure you're able to remove any food debris. If it's been a while since you've cleaned your oven, one option is to fill a pan with water and half a cup of vinegar. Put the pan in the oven at 350 degrees for 30 minutes to loosen any baked-on stains, so they're easy to wipe away once the oven cools. Clean your dryer's lint trap every time you do a load of laundry. Your dryer vents should be cleaned a minimum of once a year; however, if you do a lot of laundry, you'll likely need to clean your dryer vent every few months to prevent any obstructions. 

3. Inspect Your Cords for Damage
   Take a few minutes to regularly inspect any cords that you use. Look for signs of damage, like fraying or splitting. Replace any damaged cords immediately. Wires that aren't properly insulated are more likely to cause an electrical fire. 

4. Have Enough Smoke Detectors in Your Home
   If a fire breaks out, the sooner your family is alerted, the better your chances of escaping the fire with minimal injuries or property damage. Your home should have a smoke detector in every bedroom and in every area outside a room used for sleeping. You should also have at least one smoke detector for each level of your home. Once your smoke detectors are in place, make sure that you test them every month to confirm that they're working properly. Replace old smoke detectors every 10 years. 

5. Use Fire Safely
   An open flame is a cozy way to add ambiance to your home. However, it's important to always use fire safely. Avoid using candles around pets or children, and never leave them unattended. Keep your candle wicks trimmed to a quarter of an inch to minimize the size of the flame. When using your fireplace, use a spark screen to prevent sparks from escaping. Before disposing of ashes, check that they're cool. Use only a container intended for the disposal of fire ashes. 

6. Store Flammable Items with Care
   Certain items, like hairspray, nail polish, paint thinner, and cleaners, are flammable. Store these items away from any appliances or sources of open flames. If a fire does break out, having a flammable item nearby will give the fire the fuel it needs to quickly spread.

Take the time this October to evaluate your property and enact these fire prevention strategies. 

Have more questions about home safety or looking to upgrade your space? Contact us today!