Protect Your Home From Fire With a Few Easy Steps

7/5/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of NW & SE Dutchess is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration need.

The American Red Cross has responded to more than 20,000 house fires already in 2022, and that only represents some of the total numbers of fires across the United States.

Smoke detectors will always be the best way to protect your home and your life, but there are other measures you can take to keep yourself safe. Even a simple cleaning is an act of prevention against fire damage in your Dutchess County area.

Clear the Clutter

Clutter may be something you battle daily in your home already. Still, when hallways, stairwells, and other small spaces become full of unused items, they pose a fire risk. Loose clothing and other cloth items fuel a fire and block potential exits.

Cloth items left near a water heater can start a fire when the water heater turns on. The more you allow your spaces to stay open, the slower a fire can progress and the safer you are able to exit in the event of an emergency.

Structure fires and kitchen fires are the highest occurring types of fire in our area, and since most of us live in smaller spaces that are densely populated, keeping your home clear of clutter is especially important. Pay particular attention to your outlets and appliances, and never leave cooking unattended.

Overloaded extension cords are also a common source of fire in the home. Clear out unused electrical appliances and unplug anything you don’t use frequently.

Always leave room between furniture and wall outlets to avoid overheating and allow for proper airflow.

Create a Defensible Space in Your Yard

Your yard can be the first defense in protecting your home from a fire that originates outside. Landscaping that is laid out intentionally can prevent fires from reaching your doorstep while allowing firemen to work.

Dutchess County experienced a significant brush fire in May that reminded us all of the extreme risks of wildfires we have in New York State. Creating defensible zones in your yard is a highly effective way to slow the progression of a fire. Some states like California have imposed regulations for zones in yards, but clearing out dead plants, leaves and limbs is wise for all of us. This doesn’t mean you can’t plant the annuals and bulbs you love. You can still have the yard that you want, but you have to keep it clean and protected.

Keep It Clean & Keep It Safe

Clearing your home and your yard is not the only way you can create a more fire-safe home. Clean your stove every few months and have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year to eliminate risk in two other areas of your house.

Lowering your risks isn’t solely about deep-cleaning, either. Killing those dust bunnies hiding under beds and furniture is a great way to prevent fires. Pay special attention to dust around wall outlets and other electrical appliances. Our homes are so much more than a resting place these days. We work, play, and learn in our houses now, so take every step to prevent devastation from fire.

Contact us today if you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about our fire damage restoration services. We’re here to act fast. Call SERVPRO of NW & SE Dutchess today at (845) 635-4550.