How Can I Prevent Fire Damage To My Property?

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers are a cheap and quick way to prevent some basic property fires.

How to Avoid Fire Damage

No one wants to have a smoke or fire disaster in their home or business. It is messy and interruptive to your life. Here are three tips to minimize or avoid this altogether:

1. Alarms

This is the easiest way to prevent fire and smoke damage on your property. It makes a loud beeping sound to warn of potential smoke and fire danger. It’s a good idea to test your alarms every month and replace batteries every year. SERVPRO recommends replacing your smoke detectors at least every 10 years. This ensures your alarm is always up to date and working properly. It is a good idea to at least consider a carbon monoxide detector as well.

2. Appliances

The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) cites that nearly half of house fires occur in the kitchen. So when you’re using the microwave, stove, oven, dishwasher or other appliances, keep an eye on them. Keep your towels and chemicals far away from the heat. Stay in the kitchen while your appliances are on and active. It doesn’t hurt to have a properly rated and charged fire extinguisher nearby.

For your washer and dryer, or if you have heaters or fans in your home, make sure they do not have any frayed cords exposed plug-ins. Dryer vents should be cleaned frequently as well.

Outdoor hazards include campfires, fireworks, and grills and must be maintained. If you walk away from a fire or hot grill, it isn’t too hard for a stray spark or flame to catch and a disaster to ensue.

Combustible materials should be kept in their original containers. For example, keep gasoline in a container designed for gasoline. If the container has leaks, transfer it into a new and properly rated container. Labels are your friend. Keep everything labeled as much as possible to avoid any cross contamination or unwanted mixtures. 

3. Habits

Basic precaution measures decrease the severity and likelihood of a property fire. For example, be careful when cooking or using the appliances and keep an eye on them. When using candles for any occasion, make sure you use them carefully with drip trays and never leave them unattended.

If fire does break out in your house you should always have fire department numbers handy and a plan to deal with the situation ahead of time. It’s a good idea to have a plan of escape and review how fire extinguishers work. 

If smoke or fire does damage your property, or you have any questions, SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is here to help.  Contact us HERE or call anytime at 816-884-2240.