SUMMER FIRE PREVENTION: PART 2 - AT HOME

6/16/2017 (Permalink)

Be prepared for fire hazards in and around your home. Here are some things to keep in mind from SERVPRO Norwich / Windham County that can start a fire and impact you, your family and your property.

Clothes Dryers

Clothes dryers are a leading cause of issues in the home and most often result from lack of cleaning.

• Don’t use a dryer that doesn’t have a lint protector.
• Clean out lint and don’t let it build up.
• Have your dryer serviced and installed by a professional.

Gas Grills

• Remove anything hanging above the grill
• Keep grill a safe distance from trees, buildings, and anything that may burn.
• Clean grill frequently to stop grease buildup which can cause a fire.
• Keep grills away from homes and decks.
• Make sure the hose connection is tight and check the hoses for leaks.
• If the grill does not light immediately, wait at least 15 minutes for the propane to dissipate.
• When your finished turn off the grill and fuel cylinder.
• Keep clothing away from the surface while grilling.

Charcoal Grills

• In charcoal grills don’t add fluid after the coals are lit, and once the coals are cooled they should be placed in metal container with tight lid.

Fire Pit

• Keep fire manageable.
• Make sure fire is 10 feet away from any structure or combustible surface (plants, overhanging trees, buildings, furniture, et cetera).
• Be aware of the weather forecast.
• Always have a way to put out a fire (water, bucket of sand, fire blanket).
• Clean the area surrounding the fire pit.
• Keep a close eye on children if they are near the fire pit.

Around Your Home

• Remove billowy curtains or look for different insulating options.
• Store flammable products in a safe place, like an outdoor shed.
• Stack firewood away from the house in an uphill direction.

Have a Plan

• Have two escape routes out of your home.
• Have an evacuation plan with a meeting location if your family gets separated.
• Have personal identification, insurance documents and medication in known location that can be moved in the event of an emergency.
• Place valuables in a fire and waterproof box in a place for easy and quick access.

Stop, Drop and Roll

We all remember sitting through a childhood safety class and hearing the popular adage, “stop,drop, and roll” in the event of a fire situation. Keep this memorable phrase in mind if you or your loved ones are ever in harm’s way.

In the event the unexpected should happen, be sure to call SERVPRO Norwich / Windham County at (860) 887-0447. We offer 24/7 emergency service and will help you with all your fire and water damage restoration... "Like it never even happened."