One that could possibly hit the home, cause a lot of damage, and prove a real danger to the family. However, if you’re not prepared, you’re much more vulnerable to the worst possible outcomes. This is true of all kinds of hazards in the home, but none more than fire. Here, we’re going to look at what you can do to protect your family from fire and to recover in the event that it ever happens to you.
Put your plans in place
Even if the possibility of a fire is something you intend to prevent as much as possible, that doesn’t mean that you still shouldn’t prepare for the case in which one breaks out. Having a plan for you and your family in the event of a fire is crucial as, if one breaks out, coming out with a plan of action on the fly when the risk is real and in your face can be incredibly difficult.
For that reason, it’s important to identify points of exit in the home should a fire break out. Work out a fire escape plan to help people get to them. Practicing those fire escape plans at least twice a year with a drill can ensure that your family is always aware of the course they need to take if one does happen.
Get equipped
One of the most important pieces of equipment when it comes to preparing for a fire risk is the fire alarm. Having a working fire alarm in the home isn’t just obvious, it’s legally mandatory in most of the developed world. Beyond ensuring that you have them installed, you should test them at least once a month by holding your thumb or finger down on the test button for a few seconds and listening to a loud, piercing beep.
Similarly, you should ensure the batteries are changed at least once or twice a year. Look at other fire safety products you can invest in for the home too. For instance, mini-fire extinguishers or fire blankets that can help you stay safe in a crisis.
Know the risks
There are a wide range of potential fire risks in the home. The kitchen is the source of many fires. Unattended appliances, potential tinder near gas flames, and microwaving with non-microwave safe dishes being some of the most common risks.
A cluttered home can increase the risk. Not only by offering more material for a spark to potentially catch onto but also by helping the first spread even faster if it does catch. Faulty electrics are another major source of danger. Whether it’s worn out wires frayed by overuse or by pests, overloaded power strips and outlets, or malfunctioning appliances and devices.
The fire isn’t the end of your problems
Hopefully, your dealings with fire should never get to this stage. If a fire does strike your home, however, dealing with the aftermath and rebuilding is essential. Even after a fire has been put out, dealing with the aftermath poorly can result in damage and health risks to persist in the home. Fire damage restoration teams can help you ensure that the home is handled in the safest, most cost-effective manner possible.
It’s important to take the time to ensure the safety and well-being of the family, as well. Have everyone see the doctor to ensure that smoke inhalation and other risks aren’t a priority. It’s also worth looking for local support groups and hotlines for those who may be feeling the emotional aftermath of the blaze.
How to react to a fire
If a fire does break out, then it’s time to rely on the escape plan that you crafted in advance. Inform everyone calmly and try to keep them from panicking, ensuring them you have a plan in place. Don’t stop to collect any possessions, valuables or pets. And, if there is smoke present, stay to the ground, crawling if necessary, to avoid inhaling it.
If possible, close the door to the room where the fire is. Also pay attention to any door knobs or handles you touch. If they are hot, it’s likely because the fire is on the other side. Once you’re out, stay out, and call the emergency services. Don’t go back inside the home unless they say it’s safe to do so.
Even in the best-case scenario, a house fire can be wildly disruptive and costly. Prevention should be the number one priority. However, it’s also important to make sure you have plans to deal with the event should it ever come to pass.
