Fire departments respond to almost 350,000 home fires per year in the United States. In many cases, these fires have devastating consequences, including injury or death. You can help prevent a house fire by taking proactive measures at least once a year.
At Bronson Insurance Services in Oak Creek, WI, we’ve developed this safety checklist to help.
Your Annual Fire Prevention Checklist
- Conduct a home inspection. Once a year, take time to walk through your house and ensure your house number is visible from the street, all windows are open as expected, dryer vents are cleaned, escape routes are clear, and outlets and powerstrips aren’t overloaded.
- Change your fire alarm batteries. Change the batteries in your smoke detectors at least once a year, even if they’re hardwired.
- Print a new monthly smoke alarm testing log. Test your smoke detectors at least once a month to ensure they work and replace any defective smoke detectors right away.
- Service your fire extinguishers. Once a year, a qualified professional should service your fire extinguishers to ensure they’re still in good working order. Replace any extinguishers that are 12 years old or older or that your service technician has recommended replacing.
- Review your escape plan with your family. Many families implement an escape plan when they first move into a house and then file it away. When faced with a house fire, it can be challenging to remember the routes and meeting places you agreed upon when you drafted your escape plan. Review once a year to 1) keep your plan on top of your mind and 2) make any changes needed as the property or family evolve.
Reach Out To Us
To learn more about protecting your home and family from fire and other natural disasters, connect with us at Bronson Insurance Services in Oak Creek, WI today.
