Did you know that Winter is the worst time for home fires with more than 60% occurring in the cooler months between May and September? Fortunately there are a number of initiatives you can take to reduce the risk of fire in your home during winter.
Here’s a quick list of Winter fire safety tips to keep in mind this Winter.
How old are your fire alarms?
Many people don’t realise that they need to update their fire alarms and smoke detectors periodically. Smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years and CO alarms every 5-10 years (depending on the model you use). As well, try to use systems with long lasting batteries so you can be sure they keep working through the whole season.
Install systems in the right place
There is little use in using fire and smoke alarms if they aren’t placed in the correct spots around the home. Although the kitchen is a place of high fire risk, try to avoid placing it directly next to the oven or stove top because you’ll likely set it off just from cooking. Instead install the alarm a few metres away from any cooking appliances.
You should also install a smoke detector in each bedroom and living area as well as any outdoor areas you have (e.g garages and sheds).
Do you need other fire safety products?
Keep all the bases covered by purchasing fire blankets for the kitchen and small extinguishers for electrical/heating fires. If you have a double-story home, make sure there is an exit route from upstairs. It could be a ladder attached to the house or a drop-ladder from inside the house.
Do you have a family escape plan?
Make sure everyone knows what the plan is. It doesn’t need to be complex – it should be the opposite. If you have little ones, make sure they know to call 000 in an emergency as well as your address to give to the emergency services. If you’re little ones cannot read yet, pop a coloured sticker on the zero button so they know which button to press if need be.
Have regular inspections
To be absolutely certain your appliances are safe you need to have them inspected by a professional. It might seem costly to do this but keeping your family safe is priceless. Try to space the inspections over different years to help with budgeting. You can read more about when to get electrical safety inspections by clicking through.
Keep your family safe
There are a bunch of resources that you can use if you want to find out more including this nifty quiz which will help you determine how fire safe your home really is. Alternatively, give us a call and we can help answer all your questions.