Lessen the Risk of Fires With These Methods | SERVPRO® of North Fort Worth
6/3/2022 (Permalink)
House fires are the most prevalent disaster in the country, claiming the lives of countless individuals each year. Since the start of this year, the American Red Cross has already confirmed over 20,000 fires house fires. In that time, more than 70 fire fatalities have been documented in Texas alone.
Because these figures are only expected to rise, it is critical to have fire prevention safeguards in place in your Fort Worth home. The majority of these measures are basic practices that you can include in your daily routine, such as routinely cleaning your home:
Create a Defensible Space in Your Yard
In the aftermath of wildfires, California enacted a rule requiring residents to establish defensible space. This requires a carefully planned yard designed to limit the possibility of an outside fire reaching your home. Given the high risk of wildfires in North Fort Worth, having a strategic lawn plan could keep you and your property safe in the case of a wildfire.
Planting trees and plants at a safe distance from your home could not only slow the spread of fire but also provide space for firefighters to work if necessary. Cleaning up dead leaves, fallen limbs and other dead shrubs around your home may provide less fuel for a fire if one starts.
Make sure to keep an eye on your gutters as well! Dead plants and leaves can accumulate in your gutters, so make sure to thoroughly clean them out.
Clear the Clutter
A cluttered home is stressful enough; adding the risk of fire hazards from a messy area will only add to this stress. Pay special attention to clothes or towels piling up around the house. Not only can these block an exit if you need to escape a fire, but they can also ignite flames when near anything that releases heat, such as a water heater.
Space heaters are another appliance that produces heat. Any loose clothing or blankets near your heater, just like water heaters, could quickly cause a fire. To avoid potential fire hazards, keep these items at least three feet away.
Keep It Clean & Keep It Safe
Because most fires start in the kitchen, keeping appliances clean can help reduce flames. Cleaning your stovetop regularly to remove any food particles or grease will help prevent fires.
Fires can start in any room of the house. Keeping each room clean could help prevent an unintentional fire from starting. Set aside time to thoroughly clean your home regularly.
Other small chores around the house, such as dusting near your space heater or electrical sockets, should be done regularly.
Remember that a clean home equals a clear mind! Keep up with household duties to help yourself and your home and reduce the risk of fires.
If you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about our fire damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.