Fireproofing your home is an essential part of home ownership. Fire not only causes extensive damage to a home, but it can also cause devastating injuries that can have long-term physical and emotional effects. Taking the time to learn and implement cost effective strategies to fireproof your home can save you time, energy, money, and heartache in the long run.
One of the most cost effective strategies to prevent fires in your home is to make sure your home’s HVAC systems are regularly inspected and maintained. This should be done at least once a year, however biyearly or quarterly inspections may be necessary depending on the age of your systems. Make sure all wiring and electrical components are functioning correctly and that any potentially hazardous materials are safely disposed of.
Having a working smoke detector is one of the simplest and most cost effective fire prevention measures you can take. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that you conduct monthly tests of your smoke detectors, as well as replace their batteries twice each year. In addition to having smoke detectors on each level of your home, you should also consider investing in additional ones for your bedrooms and other important rooms.
Having fire extinguishers readily available in your home can greatly increase your chances of surviving a fire. It is recommended that you keep at least one on each floor of your home, as well as in bedrooms and other rooms that may be sources of fire ignition. Be sure to inspect fire extinguishers once a month and have them professionally serviced at least once a year.
Fireproofing your home doesn’t have to be expensive. Utilizing flame-resistant materials can be an effective and affordable option. For example, you can replace curtains and drapes with synthetic fiber curtains made out of fiberglass, or replace furniture upholstery with certified flame-resistant fabrics. You can also look for products that are certified flame resistant, such as mattresses and carpets. Investing in these materials may cost a bit more up front, but it could potentially save lives in the event of a flame.
Finally, make sure to regularly check for potential fire hazards in your home. Look for any overloaded outlets
