How to Reduce the Risk of a House Fire
House fires are among the biggest threats homeowners are faced with today. The American Red Cross Association of Greater Los Angelas reported that they responded to one house fire a day last year. It is everyone's responsibility to know how to reduce the risk of a house fire in their home because it just might save the life of a loved one.
How to Reduce the Risk of a House Fire
- Make sure your lint screen on your clothes dryer is clean. It is recommended that it be cleaned each time before using the dryer. You also should pull the dryer away from the wall at least once per year to remove the back cover and remove any lint that has built up on the inside.
- If you have a gas water heater located in an attached garage, it is a fire hazard to park your car in the enclosed space. The pilot light on the heater and the gas fumes from a car can cause an explosion if ignited.
- Never use a high wattage light bulb in a fixture that warrants a lower wattage.
- Never leave burning candles left unattended. This should not be done even if you are leaving the room for a couple of minutes because all it takes is a few seconds for a fire to start.
- Install a 120 volt smoke detector with a battery back up in your home. They should be located in all hallways and near bedrooms.
- Mount fire extinguishers throughout your home. They should be mounted in places where they are easily accessible.