The warmth of the sun is upon us and many homeowners have already begun the yearly ritual of Spring cleaning. Time to tackle the myriad of chores to get our homes and yards ready for the upcoming months. Tune-up the lawnmowers. Plant a few flowers. With all that hustle and bustle, it’s also a good time to safeguard the home against dangers, especially fire.
I’m Chris Parks with North Star Services, LLC and I’m going to give you a list of fire safety tips to help minimize the risk of fire when you’re Spring cleaning.
Smoke, Carbon Monoxide Alarms and Fire Extinguishers
Replace smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries once or twice a year
Alarms should be tested once a month (by pushing the test button)
Clean devices following manufacturer’s instructions
Fire extinguishers fully charged and placed for easy access
Electrical Cords
Electrical cords should be inspected for wear and tear and replaced if damaged
Avoid running cords under carpets or across doorways to prevent damage
Major appliances must be plugged directly into wall sockets
Cleaning the Kitchen
Remove any oil, grease or food residue from stove or other appliances.
Excess grease on the drip pan, stove or stovetop can catch fire.
Keep flammable items such as oven mitts, towels & wooden utensils off the stove
Clean Clothes Dryers
Excess lint in the dryer is the number one cause of clothes dryer fires
Before/after each load of laundry, clean the lint filter and any lint around the drum
Combustible items like boxes & clothing by the dryer should be moved
Cleaning the Garage
All paper, empty boxes, trash and oily or greasy rags should be properly disposed
If they must be stored, keep in labeled, sealed, metal containers
Garage doors should open manually in case there is a loss of power
Clean and Inspect Grills
Grills should only be used outside
Keep grills away from buildings, windows, vegetation, heating, and AC units
Propane tanks, hoses, and all connection points should be checked for leaks
After every use, clean the grease & fat build-up to prevent the risk of fire
If you smell gas when the grill is on, shut the tank and burners immediately off. A professional should service the grill before using it again.
Properly Use and Store Gasoline & Fuel
Use gasoline only as motor fuel, never as a cleaner or to break down grease
Make sure the container is tightly capped when not in use
Gasoline or propane should be stored outside home in a shed or detached garage
Create An Escape Plan
Having an escape plan in case of fire or other disaster is essential. Every homeowner should create a plan that includes a map of each level of the home with two escape routes in each room. All doors and windows should open easily for fast escapes. And everyone in the household, including children, should discuss and practice the plan.
In Case of Fire, Safety First
Every homeowner If a fire does start on your property, it’s important that you call 911 right away so that the fire department can extinguish the blaze and prevent it from spreading. Remember, you, your family’s and your pets’ lives are more important than belongings. And remember, make sure your House address is posted properly and easily visible for emergency responders. Safety first!
Request A Free Inspection Today
When your home or business has experienced fire damage, you can rely on North Star Services, LLC for comprehensive cleanup and restoration services. As a certified IICRC restoration and remediation company in Nashville, Berry Hill & throughout Middle Tennessee, North Star Services, LLC uses state-of-the-art equipment to inspect and treat both commercial and residential properties. We provide free mold and other restoration inspections. And, are available 24/7, 365 days a year for emergencies such as water damage, fire damage, flood and storm damage and more. Contact us at 629-221-0638 or request a free estimate now.