In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of a community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy. Xtreme Home Improvement is passionate about keeping you and your property safe, which is why we want to make sure you’re aware of Fire Prevention Week 2018 (October 7th to October 13th). This year’s theme is, “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere”. The campaign’s goal is to educate people about three basic but essential steps to reduce the likelihood of having a fire and how to escape safely in the event of one:
LOOK
Look for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home. Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them safely.Top three causes for home fires:
- Cooking Equipment accounts for 47% of fires, and of fire related deaths.
- Heating Equipment accounts for 15% of fires and 19% of fire related deaths.
- Electrical accounts for 9% of fires, and 18% of fire related deaths.
LISTEN
Listen for the sound of a smoke alarm. Get outside to safety as soon as you hear the alarm sound. Two thirds of fire deaths occur in homes with missing or non-functioning smoke alarms.- Remember to test smoke alarms monthly, change battery yearly and replace alarm every 10 years.
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area and on every level of your home, including the basement.
LEARN
Learn two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.- Have a qualified electrician inspect your electrical system every 10 years.
- Have a qualified electrician install AFCI breakers and receptacles.
- The CPSC (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission) estimates that 50% of electrical fires can be prevented with AFCl’s.
- Extension cords cause an estimated 3,300 home fires a year. Never use them as permanent wiring.
The Importance of Fire Prevention
Fire safety education is important for everyone – not just children. Since fires continue to occur, it shows we still have a lot to learn regarding fire prevention. Planning is key when it comes to fire safety and it’s imperative to have a reliable fire protection plan in place. This fire protection plan includes an account of all potential fire hazards and practices to prevent those fires. A quality fire prevention plan is one that focuses on anticipating and preventing all potential fires from occurring. After all, the best way to keep everyone safe from fires is not to let them start in the first place. If you want more information or tips on Fire Prevention Week, the National Fire Protection Association has plenty of resources for you.
In the event that you’re a victim of a home fire, don’t hesitate to call the professionals – Xtreme Home Improvement. To learn more about how we can help, visit our Fire Damage page. We are there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and will answer when you need us!