In October, we see a lot of orange - from leaves changing to pumpkin patches, candy corn and more .... But there's one thing that's bright orange that you don't want to see this season... and that's your home going up in smoke!
Did you know that October is Fire Safety and Prevention Month? Now is the ideal time to review some common fire safety tips and make sure that the only orange you'll be seeing this fall is in celebration of the season.
Here is a scary statistic that should motivate us all to pay attention to these tips:
The U.S. Fire Administration last reported updated statistics for the year 2011 on their website here:
In that year alone, there were 1,389,500 home fires reported in the United States,
resulting in 3,005 lives lost and $11.7 billion dollars in property damage.
Make sure you and your family doesn't become a part of this terrible statistic. Always keep the following tips top of mind ... you may event want to print this message out and stick it on the fridge.
By following the following tips, you can help smother the fire before it even begins:
- Smoke Detectors - While it almost goes without saying, every home should have a smoke detector in every room. Smoke detectors can be picked up at any hardware store and are fairly inexpensive.
- Create & Practice an Escape Route - In the event of a house fire, getting yourself and your family to safety quickly is the top priority. Create an escape route from each room in the house and practice it on a regular basis.
- Go Easy on Your Electrical - Never overload extension cords or the circuits in your house. Keep wires and cords away from rugs and other high traffic areas. Make sure all plugs are fitted snugly in the out-let. A poor fitting plug can overheat and ignite a fire quickly.
- Clean Out the Dryer Vent - Clothes dryers are a common ignition source for house fires. Keep the lint trap clean and make sure your exhaust duct is clear. Exhaust duct should be made of metal tubing, not plastic. It is a good idea to clean behind the dryer at least twice a year.
- Be SUPER Aware of the Risk of Using Alternative Heat Sources - Alternative heat sources require a bit more attention that your run-of-the-mill heating/cooling system. If, in your home, you have chosen to use a fireplace or a space heater, make sure you remain attentive to them at all times. A portable heater should be kept at least three feet away from anything flammable, including curtains, furniture, and more. When using a fireplace be sure to use fires screens and have the chimney cleaned on a regular basis.
Use these tips to help protect what matters most - your home and your loved ones!