House fire is probably the most tragic destiny a homeowner could ever find himself in. Apart from endangering life and health, destruction of belongings and properties, even causing emotional trauma, can be extremely unbearable. We may not always avoid the unexpected, but there are a number of things that you can do to help reduce the possibility of having a house fire. And just as important as prevention is preparation — making sure you’re protected with reliable home insurance in case the worst does happen.
Here are some effective measures to help keep your home safe from fire accidents:
- Install Smoke Alarms on Every Level
Smoke alarms are your best protection. They give you an early fire signal, and literally it could be death or life. Make sure you have working smoke alarms in each area of your home and especially in sleeping rooms. Check them every month and replace the batteries at least once a year. Replace your alarm completely if it is over 10 years old.
For extra protection, look into connected smoke alarms — when one, they all trigger.
- Take Care in the Kitchen
Cooking left unattended is one of the most common causes of fires in the home. Never leave the oven or range on without staying nearby. Clear things like paper towels, dish towels, and curtains from around the burners. Avoid loose sleeves while cooking, and have a fire extinguisher within reach.
Always turn pot handles inwards so they won't be knocked over by accident, especially in households with kids.
- Make Electricity Safe
Overloaded wiring, frayed wiring, and taut wiring are common reason for fires. Never overload a plug or use power strips loaded with several appliances. If your circuit breaker continues to trip or your lights keep dimming unnecessarily, it could be old or unsafe wiring — have it checked by a qualified electrician.
Avoid hiding cords in carpets and beneath furniture and repair frayed or broken cords immediately.
- Use Heaters Safely
Space heaters are simple to use during cold weather but are lethal in the heat of the moment when misused. Place at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding, or furniture. Never leave one unattended behind, and make sure it is fitted with an automatic shut-off in the event it gets tipped over.
- Use Candles Carefully
Candles are warm, but dangerous. Place them in unbreakable containers and on unbreakable surfaces in safe locations, such as away from drafts, pets, and children. Don't leave a lighted candle, and extinguish it if you're leaving the room or getting into bed.
Or, if you like the ambiance but do not wish to be unsafe, have flameless LED candles.
- Clean Your Chimney
If your home has a wood stove or wood fireplace, get the chimney inspected and cleaned annually. Creosote is the largest cause of chimney fires as it is highly combustible. Burn only dry, seasoned firewood and never burn treated wood, trash, or cardboard.
Install a spark guard to catch embers that dribble into the room.
- Remove Flammable Material from the Area
Gasoline, thinner, and all other flammable liquids should be stored in authorized containers outside the home and away from heat, ideally a garage or shed. Lock them securely and put them beyond the reach of children.
Where you are having something that burns or is flammable, ensure there is a good air flow.
- Practice an Escape Plan
Fire safety is prevention, but also readiness, in case of a fire. Make a fire escape plan with at least two ways out of each room and a meeting spot outside. Have everyone living in the home rehearse the plan at least twice a year.
Make sure all the members of the household know how to stop, drop, and roll, and ensure children know how to call emergency numbers.
- Locate Fire Extinguishers Where Convenient
Have a fire extinguisher in accessible locations like the kitchen, garage, and fireplace. Make sure everyone in the household knows how to use them. Don't forget the PASS formula: Pull the pin, Aim low, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side.
Check the pressure gauge every month and replace or have the extinguishers serviced according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Buy Comprehensive Home Insurance
Even with all precautions in place, accidents can still happen. That’s why having reliable home insurance is essential. A good policy can help cover the cost of repairing or rebuilding your home, replacing damaged belongings, and even paying for temporary accommodations if you’re displaced.
When choosing a home insurance policy, make sure it includes fire coverage and that the coverage limits reflect the current value of your home and possessions. Review your policy annually and update it if you’ve renovated or added high-value items.
Final Thoughts
You can avoid a home fire by starting off with consciousness and accountability. With prevention steps — from putting in smoke alarms and safe heaters to keeping flammable materials at bay — you reduce the risk factor. And with your home covered by insurance as a sort of additional safeguard, you can sleep better at night knowing that when calamity strikes, you're not left high and dry.
