According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were 1,345,500 fires reported in the US in 2015. In the same year, one home structure fire was reported every 86 seconds. The scariest statistic of all? You and your family have less than two minutes to escape before flames/smoke engulf the structure.
There is little time to think or act in the moment of a fire. This is why it is crucial to educate yourself and your family on fire safety and prevention. Follow these helpful tips from American Advantage – Petersen Group in New Berlin, Wisconsin:
- Install smoke alarms in all levels of your home, Put them both inside the bedroom and outside. Make sure to test smoke alarms every month to ensure they are working properly.
- Create a fire escape plan with your family members and practice the plan semi-annually.
- Avoid plugging several appliance cords into the same electrical outlet.
- Use common sense while in the kitchen. Limit distractions while cooking and keep items that can catch on fire, such as wooden spoons or dish towels, away from your stove top.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of emergency.
- Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn. Always blow them out when you leave the room or go to sleep.
- Store matches and lighters away from young children.
- Never leave space heater on when you are not in the room. Also, keep them at least three feet away from any items that can burn. Closely supervise children and pets while a space heater is in use.
- If you live in an apartment building, know all of the building’s fire escape exists. Do not use the elevator in the event of a fire, always take the stairs.
- If you have a fireplace or wood burning stove, be sure to only use seasoned hardwood like oak, ash, or maple.
Make sure your home and belongings are properly covered with American Advantage – Petersen Group in New Berlin, Wisconsin!!