Regardless of whether it is you or others around you, a house fire is possible. However, you can greatly reduce that possibility by implementing safe practices with your fireplace or stove. That is why we will provide you with nine valuable fire-safety tips.
1. Don’t smoke while in bed
Do you tend to smoke a lot before going to sleep? If the answer is yes, we recommend that you do not smoke your cigarettes, cigar or pipe on the bed.
2. Turn off or put out fires when leaving the house
If you plan to go on a trip, try to turn off all fires in your heating stove or fireplace. The only flame that should be lit is the pilot light for the hot water heater.
3. Don’t use flammable fluids to start a fireplace fire
Do you plan to use a flammable fluid to expedite the lighting of your fireplace? If your answer is yes, we recommend that you do not do so because of the risk of causing an explosion or damaging your fireplace. Use only dry wood.
4. Teach children that fire is not a toy
If you have children in your home, it is important to teach them the importance of not playing with matches, lighters or fires in the fireplace; as a percentage of annual home fires are caused by it.
5. Have your fireplace and chimney inspected annually
It is recommended that you schedule the inspection of your chimney in advance, since by doing it on time, you will be guaranteeing its good operational condition and will avoid any risk that may lead to a fire hazard.
6. Have your chimney cleaned once a year
It is very important that a contractor clean the inside of your fireplace at least once a year to remove creosote build-up, as it is a material that easily ignites.
7. Install and maintain smoke detectors
These devices must be placed in strategic places in the house, as well as they must be tested on a monthly basis and have their batteries changed annually, all so that they can do their main job: save your life.
8. Keep fire extinguishers handy
Make sure your home has fire extinguishers in places like the kitchen, living room or garage, as they can save your life in case of fire.
9. Make an evacuation plan
It is recommended that you have a fire action plan ready, which includes the following: evacuation routes and the location of personal valuables that can be evacuated to a safe place in time.
Here at Delta Chimneys Buffalo Grove we unconditionally support the implementation of safe fire practices. We are here to help you keep security standards high through our first-class services. To contact a fire safety expert, call us today.