Fire safety: Prevention and actions plans for your home

by Ari Koufos 11/07/2022

House fires can do tremendous damage to your home and also put your household's lives at risk. It's crucial to practice fire safety and prevention, so you and your house members are prepared in case a fire does happen. Taking steps to prevent fires from occurring helps reduce the risk of having to deal with these fires. The following checklist can help you practice fire safety and prevention.

Make an escape plan

One of the first things on your checklist should be an escape plan. You and your household need to know where to go if a fire occurs. Keep in mind you might need to have two different escape routes available. Establishing these escape routes and practicing your escape plan can help ensure everyone in your house knows how to get out safely.

Practice fire drills twice a year

Run through a fire drill at least twice a year, or more often if needed, with your household. During these drills, practice your escape plan, including escaping via different routes or getting to safety from unexpected places you might be in when a fire breaks out, such as the basement or attic. Running through these fire drills is an important part of making sure your house members stay safe if a fire occurs.

Purchase a fire extinguisher

Having a fire extinguisher in your home provides a handy way to put out smaller fires before they become bigger ones. You might keep your fire extinguisher near your kitchen in case of cooking fires or close to an exit, so you can grab it easily. Maintain your extinguisher to make sure it's in good condition at all times.

Test smoke alarms

Make a habit of checking your smoke alarms weekly to make sure they work. Every level in your home should have at least one smoke alarm. Check and/or replace batteries in your smoke alarms at least once a year, which helps ensure these alarms will go off in case of a fire.

Identify fire hazards

Check for fire hazards in and around your home, such as outlets that aren't working or frayed wires. Move flammable objects a few feet away from fireplaces, and clear out your lint filter to prevent dryer fires. Remove as many fire hazards from your home as possible to prevent house fires from occurring.

About the Author
Author

Ari Koufos

I have been selling Real Estate in the Greater Boston Area since 1997. I am the Co-Founder & Current Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Watertown. A lifelong resident of Watertown which I still reside with my Wife Debra and my Twins Emily & Christopher.  I am a  supporter of many local & national charities. One of my most rewarding fundraisers was as a rider in the PanMass Challenge in 2010,2011,2015 & 2016 raising over $50,000 over those 4 years for the Dana Farber Jimmy Fund. I am a 1988 Graduate of Bentley University in Waltham. I have extensive knowledge of all types of Real Estate participating in over 1000 transactions. I also have New Construction experience & specialize in condo conversions.  

Purchasing a home is one of the single most important investments in a person's life. With my expertise and guidance in the home buying and selling process, I can help find the most appropriate home for you. You can be assured that an experienced Real Estate Professional is working with your interests in mind. Please contact me on my cell at 617-799-8948 or email [email protected] for a free consult if you are thinking of Buying or Selling your home.