Autumn Safety Tips: Protect What Matters this Fall

10/11/2016 (Permalink)

Autumn Safety Tips: Protect What Matters this Fall

by Victoria Araj 10-4-11

• Every month should be fire prevention month, but we tend to plug in a lot more devices in the fall and winter.  It’s important to test all smoke alarms and have a family fire drill.  Remember to replace used and expired fire extinguishers as well.

• Turn your heater on before the temperatures really plummet so you can ensure it works.  Contact a technician to inspect that it’s operating properly if you suspect it needs servicing.

• Keep all flammable materials away from your furnace.  This includes, clothing, paint products, toxic materials, cardboard and more.

• If you use a portable or space heater, keep it away from clothing, bedding, drapery and furniture.  Remember to shut them off if you leave the house and don’t leave them unattended if you have children or pets.

• Do not use your space heater as a dryer for hats, gloves and other articles of clothing.

• If you have a fireplace, inspect the chimney to confirm it is free of debris, creosote buildup, and is unobstructed so combustibles can vent.  Make sure the bricks, mortar and liner are in good condition.

• Do not warm your kitchen with a gas range or an open oven door, as this can lead to toxic air that is not safe to breathe.

• Keep matches, lighters and candles out of the reach of children and pets.

• When burning a candle, don’t leave them unattended, burning near other flammable items or on an unsteady surface.

• Doing laundry?  Avoid fires by cleaning filters after each load of wash and removing lint that collects in dryer vents.

• Do a quick check for areas that may need repair before extreme weather hits:  unsteady roof shingles, warped windowsills and concrete that might be sloping toward the house.

• Check all outdoor lighting fixtures to make sure they are working properly.  This can safeguard you against falls and neighborhood crime.

• Clean your gutters by removing all debris and leaves.

• Before burning leaves, check your city’s regulations, as it may be illegal where you live.  If you burn them, do so away from the house and use proper containers.

Remember SERVPRO of St. Clair Shores is always Here to Help at 586-741-5050. Save our phone number in your phone so that you can be Hero Ready if disaster strikes your home or business.