Promote Fire Safety Around the Home

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms are a vital part of home safety

In the classic film "The Wizard of Oz," Dorothy famously uttered the phrase, "there's no place like home." Now, several decades later, that sentiment remains very dear to people's hearts. While homes are sanctuaries for many people, a home can be dangerous. According to the National Fire Protection Association and average of 7 people die every day in fire related accidents in the home.  Home fire deaths from fires in which no smoke alarms were present, or in which smoke alarms were present but did not operate, accounted for 60 percent of all home fire deaths. Smoke alarms were lacking in 37 percent of home fire deaths, and at least one alarm was present but non-operational in 23 percent.

Having properly maintained equipment is critical in preventing loss of life.

* Fire extinguisher: This can be kept on hand for minor fires.

* Smoke alarm: These alert to the presence of smoke, which could be indicative of a home fire.

* Carbon monoxide alarm: These alarms are a necessity to detect carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can cause death if inhaled in high amounts. Carbon monoxide alarms are frequently installed by furnaces and bedrooms.

* First aid kit: A medical kit will have all of the supplies necessary to treat minor injuries.

* Fire escapes: Those who live in multi-level homes can invest in retractable ladders that attach to windows and provide an emergency point of exit. Accidents around the home are prevalent but often preventable.

Having the proper fire safety equipment in place in your home is critical in protecting your family. And remember while a fire in your home can be devastating, belongings can be replaced; especially when you trust your loss to the experienced team of SERVPRO of Lexington / Thomasville.