Add Fire Protection To Your Spring Cleaning

Your Spring Cleaning list may include, washing your windows, cleaning up garbage that may have flown into your yard during the winter, cleaning the gutters, and cleaning your garage floor. But there are a few more items that you can add to keep your home safe from fires.


Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms – Replace smoke and CO alarms batteries and test them once a month by pushing the test button. Gently clean the alarms, but make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions first.


Kitchen – Keep countertops and stovetops free of grease and clutter. Excess grease on the drip pan or stovetop can easily catch fire. Clean oil and food spill immediately after they occur and wait until the stove is cool to wipe away the oil or grease spills. Keep flammable items such as oven mitts, towels, or wooden utensils, away from your stovetop.


Electrical Cords – Inspect the electrical cords in your home and replace worn or tattered ones. Use extension cords only temporarily and plug major appliances directly into wall sockets.


Clothes Dryers – Excess lint in the dryer is the number one cause of clothes dryer fires. Clean the lint that has been collected around the drum before or after each load of laundry. Always use a lint filter and clean it regularly. Have your dryer vents extensively cleaned by a professional. Move combustible items like boxes and clothing around your dryer to a safer area.


Grilling – Clean the grease or fat build-up after every use. This not only decreases the risk of fire, but also helps the food cook better. Make sure you check the propane tank, hose, and all connection points for cracks and leaks. If you smell gas when the grill is on, turn off the tank and burners immediately. If you have a charcoal grill, use only charcoal starter fluid. Make sure you grill a safe distance from your home and any flammable materials.


Evacuation Plan – You should have an escape plan in case of a fire. The plan should include a map of each home level with two escape routes in each room. Discuss and practice the plan with everyone in the household, including children, and add pets to the plan.


Call Reliable Fire & Security for all your Commercial Fire & Security needs at 708-597-4600.