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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Fire Safety Tips and Reminders for Spring

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

Diverse family having a cookout, smiling at each other Practicing these safety precautions will ensure your spring cookouts end with s'mores, not fire damage.

Many of us associate home fire protection with colder seasons as they are the months of space heaters, fireplaces, candles, and holiday lights. However, approaching warmer temperatures still warrants for fire safety practices and awareness of potential fire hazards. As we transition to lighter layers of clothing, backyard cookouts, and sunshine, here are some fire safety tips to be reminded of:

Grill Fire Safety

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that just under 9,000 house fires are caused by outdoor grilling annually. It is very important to keep proper maintenance of your grill, and you should ensure that each part of the grill is thoroughly checked before and during use to prevent unwanted danger.

This includes checking the propane tank, hose, and all connecting joints are assembled properly and frequently cleaned. Something to note is to only use charcoal lighter fluid on charcoal – NEVER gasoline, diesel fuel, or other flammable liquids to start a fire. Once a fire is lit, anyone with a container of lighter fluid should not be near the grill, no matter what. Keep grills located 10ft away from homes or tents, and away from overhanging trees.

Outdoor Fire Pit Safety

Like grills, fire pits are an enjoyable part of warmer seasons, but can pose a danger if proper precautions are ignored. Again, NEVER use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start a fire. There are many safe and recommended fire starters available to you! Always keep your eyes on children and pets near fire pits and have a water bucket or fire extinguisher at hand. Avoid tossing highly flammable materials such as pinecones, needles, and plastic into the pit. Keeping the pit area safe ensures that s’mores night goes smoothly!

Keep Your Home Debris-Free

With wildfires burning across the U.S. each year, there are prevention tactics people living in at-risk areas can do to minimize or eliminate the effects:

  • Dispose of and/or move branches, weeds, leaves, pine needles, grass clippings
  • Move trash, woodpiles, construction material ~30 feet away from properties
  • Remove dead vegetation and other flammable materials that are closer than ~5 feet of properties
  • Clean your gutters and under deck of leaves, pine needles, and other flammable materials

Appliance Safety

As warmer weather approaches, we may be inclined to use fans and other indoor appliances to keep cool and maintain the home as usual. Below are some key reminders for indoor appliance fire safety:

  • Major appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet. NEVER use an extension cord with a major appliance
  • Unplug small appliances when not in use. If the cord is cracked, damaged, or loose, replace the appliance
  • Do not overload outlets and power strips. Avoid putting cords where they can be damaged or pinched such as under a carpet or rug

Tests and Checks

It’s important to frequently check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors function properly, and to change the batteries when needed. It is also important to check your fire extinguisher. Windows should be checked to ensure they open and close properly. Keep chemicals and paints stored properly. Recycle and get rid of old newspapers, magazines, junk mail, and other materials that just pile up. Keep stairs and landings clear for safe emergency evacuations if needed.

Insurance Review

It is advised to check your homeowner's insurance policy once a year, and update your coverage needs where applicable. Reviewing your coverage in the event of a house fire will help you be more prepared and ease a little additional distress to your situation.

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