Keeping your home safe doesn't have to be complicated. By practicing good habits and establishing best practices with everyone in your household, you can prepare for--and prevent--major issues. Fire safety is a particular concern that can be accomplished by remembering a few simple tips. Here are the basics of household fire safety:
Maintain & Test Your Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are a requirement in all modern homes. However, it's important to remember that smoke detectors and alarms require batteries to function. Most have a built-in alert function to tell you when the battery is low. Instead of stopping that incessant beeping and going about your business, change the batteries right away. Even if you don't get a low battery alert, set a schedule for checking the batteries at least once a year to make sure they're ready to help you in an emergency.
Don't Leave a Flame Unattended
Scented and decorative candles can be excellent features of a cozy home. Unfortunately, candles also present a significant risk if left unattended. If you choose to enjoy the comfy ambiance and glow of candles in your home, make a habit of putting them out if you leave the room for more than a few minutes. It's also a good idea to treat fireplaces and wood stoves with the same caution so that an open flame doesn't have a chance to surprise you.
Have a Plan
It might not be fun to think about a fire occurring in your home, but it's crucial to be prepared. Gather with your family or housemates to establish a plan for escape routes and a meeting place. Make sure everybody knows how to unlock and operate emergency exits or fire escape ladders. If you have pets, include them in your safety planning by having a spare carrier or leash in a specific place so you can grab them in a hurry. Having a plan will make you safer and ensure the best possible outcome in case of a fire.
Fire safety is made up of many factors. Keep these three basics in mind when establishing good safety habits around the home.
About the Author
Ryan Mandigo
Ryan Mandigo is an award-winning professional broker associate with Omni Real Estate. Originally a native of New Hampshire, his love of real estate began 30+ years ago while swinging a hammer on a framing crew. He has always had a strong passion for helping people, whether it be assisting a couple in purchasing their first home, finding a home that fits a growing family's needs, or downsizing for those with an empty nest. He strives to build strong personal and professional relationships with being a true believer in the power of positive thinking and always willing to lend a helping hand.
He is also a co-founder and board member of the Swing Fore the Kids organization. A local charity that is 100% nonprofit and their sole purpose is to help needy children and young adults within Horry County communities. He finds great satisfaction and pleasure in seeing how working hard for a great cause and raising funds can help others in need. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Waccamaw Youth Center in Conway, where their mission is to provide at-risk youth "A Place To Call Home"
When he is not working, he enjoys music, working around the home, spending time with family and friends, turning wrenches on vintage vehicles, getting some wind therapy on the Harley or chilling with their dogs.
Some quotes he lives by - "Do what you like and like what you do" - "You have to be odd to be number one" - "Dreams don't work unless you do" And one of his favorites. "Positive and enthusiastic thinking in all you do"
