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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

A Few Easy Steps to Prevent Fires | SERVPRO® Of Anniston, Gadsden and Marshall County

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

interior view of a room with items completely destroyed by fire If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Anniston, Gadsden and Marshall is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.

Since the start of 2022, the American Red Cross has responded to over 20,000 house fires, and that only represents a small portion of the total fires that have occurred this year across the United States.

While you hopefully have several smoke detectors installed in your house already, there are a few other easy ways to protect your home and your loved ones. Even simple acts of cleaning take a step toward a fire-safe house.

<h3the-clutter">Clear the Clutter

If you have been looking around your home and thinking it was time to clean out, this might help motivate you: Clutter can actually fuel a fire. Loose clothing, pillows and blankets in utility spaces or hallways not only have the potential to block an exit in the event of an emergency, but they can also make a fire burn hotter and faster.

Leaving flammable items near a water heater can actually start a fire when the water heater warms up. The more open your spaces are, the faster you can get out if a fire should start and the slower the fire will progress.

Another area in the home you can clean up for safety is wall outlets and extension cords. Overloaded extension cords are a common starting point for fires. Remove any unused appliances, and unplug those that you don’t use often.

Take a quick walk around your home and ensure there is space between furniture and wall outlets. This allows for air to flow properly and avoid overheating.

<h3a-defensible-space-in-your-yard">Create a Defensible Space in Your Yard

The area around your home can serve as the first line of defense from fires that originate outside. Landscaping that is laid out intentionally not only works to slow a fire before it gets to your front door but also allows room for firefighters to work.

Intentionally landscaped and maintained spaces create defensible zones. Some states like California have actually imposed zone regulations for homeowners to fight against wildfires, and with our dense areas of forest close to residential spaces, this type of yard work makes a lot of sense for us, too.

In the summer when our temperatures can top well over 90, we need to be especially careful of how we handle any outdoor burning and even where we park our cars. Parking a hot car on dry grass can quickly spark a flame, so stick to pavement as much as you are able.

Last year when the drought set in, this was particularly important. Clearing out the leaves and any dead limbs is also essential in slowing any flames that do start.

<h3it-clean-keep-it-safe">Keep It Clean & Keep It Safe

You can be preventive in two other high-risk areas of your home by giving your oven a deep-clean every few months and having your chimney cleaned and inspected at least once a year.

Even the simple act of dusting is an act of fire prevention, especially around electronics and power sources.

Our houses give so much to us these days—serving as space for work, play, learning and relaxation. Give back to your home and protect your loved ones by keeping it clean to prevent a devastating fire.

If you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about our fire damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 247.

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