A Two-Step Guide to Fire Damage Prevention

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

Guide to Fire Damage Prevention

Fire damage is an easy topic to think of as “something that happens to other people.” SERVPRO of NW Charlotte has witnessed firsthand how “other people” didn’t think it could happen to them either. However, a little prevention could have gone a long way. The answer to minimizing fire damage is simple: it starts with you! Remembering these two simple suggestions will make sure you’ve done everything possible to prevent fire damage.

Steps to Fire Damage Prevention

1. Have all the systems in place.

- Detectors

Make sure that you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. Ideally, these would be professionally hard wired into your home with a backup battery. Any fire safety professional will tell you these are not optional - they make the difference between life and death and will alert you at the onset of a potential hazard so that you can extinguish it as soon as possible. Also, have detectors checked each month.

- Extinguishers

Should an alarm go off, the next system to have in place is a fire extinguisher or sprinkler system. Fire extinguishers should be available in the kitchen, and ideally in at least one main bedroom or any areas that are likely to have an open flame and be a potential fire hazard.

2. Know your hazards

Homes are filled with hidden fire hazards. Closely monitoring or even eliminating such hazards will automatically prevent a fire and minimize the potential for fire damage.

- Cords and Wiring

Make sure surge protectors and extension cords are not overloaded. In addition, make sure none of your electrical cords have exposed or fraying wires. If you notice any odd electrical behavior in your home, have the electrical wiring checked by a professional electrician.

- Dryer

Clean your dryer’s lint trap after every drying cycle so that lint will not accumulate and become a fire hazard.

- Fireplace

Have your chimney cleaned on a routine basis, and do not have a fire in your fireplace unless recommended by a professional.

- Open Flames

Keep burning candles away from flammable objects such as curtains, tablecloths, etc. Do not leave open flames unattended. Even better, use battery-operated candles to eliminate the potential of hazard from an open flame.

- Natural Gas

Always keep a close eye on pipes and appliances that use natural gas. If you smell gas, call your utility company immediately. Do not turn on or turn off any appliances. Doing so could cause a spark that will ignite any leaking gas. Strictly follow the directions of your utility company.

- Outdoor hazards

The best policy for outdoors is to not have piles of leaves, brush, or foreign objects such as glass surrounding your home. In extreme temperatures, such piles are flammable and tend to self-ignite.

- Cooking, Outdoor Fires, and Grills

The number one cause of fire damage is cooking. Always have a fire extinguisher nearby the kitchen, grill, or outdoor fire. The quicker you can act on an uncontained fire, the less the extent of the damage will be.

- Items that Charge

Keep a close eye on rechargeable items such as batteries, cell phones, hoverboards, and more. Charge items away from flammable materials such as curtains, pillows, bedspreads, etc. If the item’s battery or the charge itself begins to feel hot, do not leave it unattended and it is best to unplug the item.

Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration

As always, it is essential to remember that a prompt response will lessen any fire damage, reduce further damage and minimize costs. However, should fire damage occur despite your preparation, our certified professionals are ready to respond immediately and will help return your home to its original condition.

We are locally owned and operated and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The quicker you call us, the quicker we can help!