Our Holiday Guide: Keeping Your West Escambia County Home Safe from Fire

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damaged home

As the holiday season approaches, it's essential to remember that while it's a time of joy and celebration, it can also bring an increased risk of fire hazards to your West Escambia County home. Your SERVPRO® neighbors are here to help ensure a safe and festive holiday season. In this blog post, we'll provide you with a holiday guide on how to keep your home safe from fire hazards during this special time of year.

1. Carefully Decorate Your Home:

• Choose Flame-Resistant Decorations: Opt for decorations made of flame-resistant materials. This reduces the risk of decorations catching fire if they come into contact with heat sources.

• Maintain Safe Distances: Keep decorations, such as candles, holiday lights, and other flammable items, away from heat sources, like fireplaces, heaters, and stovetops.

2. Safe Lighting Practices:

• Use LED Lights: LED holiday lights generate less heat, making them safer than traditional incandescent lights. Plus, they're energy-efficient!

• Inspect Cords: Check all cords and wires for damage or fraying. Replace any damaged ones immediately to prevent electrical fires.

• Turn Off Lights: Always turn off holiday lights when you leave home or go to bed. Consider using timers to automate this process.

3. Cautious Candle Use:

• Opt for Flameless Candles: Flameless candles offer the ambiance of real candles without the fire risk. They're a safe alternative, especially if you have pets or children.

• Never Leave Candles Unattended: If you do use traditional candles, never leave them burning unattended. Make sure they are extinguished before leaving the room or going to sleep.

4. Mindful Cooking Practices:

• Stay in the Kitchen: When cooking, especially if you're frying or broiling, stay in the kitchen. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires.

• Use a Timer: Set timers to remind yourself of cooking times, so you don't forget about food on the stovetop or in the oven.

5. Keep an Eye on Your Fireplace:

• Have Your Chimney Inspected: Before using your fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep to remove creosote buildup, reducing the risk of chimney fires.

• Use a Fireplace Screen: A fireplace screen or glass doors can help prevent sparks from escaping and igniting nearby flammable items.

6. Maintain Smoke Alarms:

• Test Regularly: Test your smoke alarms monthly to ensure they're in working order.

• Change Batteries: Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year, and consider doing so when daylight saving time begins or ends.

7. Create an Escape Plan:

• Plan Ahead: In case of a fire emergency, create and practice a fire escape plan with your family. Identify escape routes and a meeting place outside the home.

8. Fire Extinguishers:

• Keep Fire Extinguishers Handy: Place fire extinguishers in easily accessible locations, such as the kitchen and near fireplaces. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to use them.

9. Avoid Overloading Outlets:

• Limit Plug Loads: Don't overload electrical outlets with too many decorations or devices. Use power strips with surge protection when necessary.

10. Be Cautious with Space Heaters:

• Maintain Clearance: Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials, and don't leave them unattended.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy a festive and fire-safe holiday season in your West Escambia County home. At SERVPRO®, we care about your safety and well-being. If you ever need assistance or have questions about fire safety, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make this holiday season joyful and worry-free.