Warmer weather means air conditioners will be in full swing, pools will get some attention, and the BBQ will be re-lit.
While it is important to spend time outside enjoying your home, it is equally as important to ensure you home is prepared for fire safety for those “just in case” moments. Here are some tips to ensure you home is fire safe in the upcoming summer months:
Smoke alarms – Make sure they are installed correctly and are working, ensure batteries are replaced when needed.
Also make sure these tips are followed:
- Change batteries once a year.
- Fit an alarm in each bedroom of the house.
- Position smoke alarms as per the manufacturer’s’ instructions.
- Replace batteries when alarm signals batteries are low.
- Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.
- Test your alarm once a month.
Escape plan for the family – Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year. With young kids in mind, try to make it a fun activity, but also emphasise the importance and seriousness of fire. It is vital to make sure you have your way out in case a fire breaks out. Nothing is more important than making sure each and everyone’s life is safe.
Kitchen safety – Don’t leave anything cooking or open flames unattended. Don’t leave children in the kitchen while you’re cooking. If possible turn off the burner or oven if you need to leave the house or get caught up in a phone call. Do not install power points near kitchen sinks or water supplies. Keep a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen. Check for possible gas leaks and make sure you schedule your annual courtesy inspection.
Don’t overload power – Try to avoid plugging too many things into power-points, and avoid using numerous adapters. Where need be, installing additional power-points around the home is the best option. Always ask assistance from a licensed electrician when you want to install additional power points so you can position them in the safest area in the house.
Check the BBQ – Whether it’s gas, electric or wood, it is important to make sure it is in safe working order before lighting, and even more important that a responsible adult is using it. Supervise children when cooking around the grill.
Remove leaves – if you live in a bushfire prone area it is important to keep the ground and gutters clear of any leaves or debris, which is something that should be considered year round.
Gutter Guards – These guards, which are typically made of stainless steel, allow water through while keeping debris out. Getting a good quality gutter guard installed on your home reduces the risks of fires, and makes it a lot easier when it comes to annual maintenance.
Our qualified electricians are available to assist with any work you require around the home, whether it’s additional power points or ensuring smoke alarms and other fire safety equipment is installed or made available.