Did you know that an average of 800 fires strike residential homes in the United States every day? With more than 6,500 people a year dying from (mainly in-home) fires in our country, fire safety in our homes and neighborhoods is becoming increasingly important. According to the Round Rock Fire Department, these home fires are mostly occurring between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM, the hours when we are likely to be fast asleep. With these numbers in mind, it is very important to be aware of the home fire safety precautions that will protect you and the loved ones in your home.
A very important step in fire safety is to be prepared and plan ahead. This means ensuring that you have the right equipment in place to detect possible fire threats. Smoke detectors in the home should be very well-maintained; According to the U.S. Fire Administration, they should be tested at least once a month and the batteries should be changed at least once a year. This will alert you to any smoke or budding fires before it is too late. You should also make yourself and all the loved ones in your home familiar with multiple escape routes in all rooms of the house, and invest in a multipurpose fire extinguisher, making sure that all residents know how to use it properly.
Of course, consciously acting to prevent fires is another crucial step; there are a host of possible fire threats that we might not be as conscious of when living our day-to-day. For example, while fireplaces in the home are very cute and cozy, they are one of the greatest causes of in-home fires and fire injuries. Be sure not to overload your fire, pay close attention to any damage to the bricks or structure, keep combustibles like spray cans within a generous distance, and use a screen around your fireplace to avoid flying sparks. Furnaces and stoves pose another threat when poorly maintained; make sure all of the heating sources in your home are clean and well-kept. Be sure to fix or replace any damaged wires or outlets, and avoid overloading them or leaving them unattended for vast periods of time. These are just a few of the things to be cautious and aware of, always keep an eye on your home and the equipment within for possible fire hazards.
As an extra, but equally important measure, the members in your home should always be aware of the resources in their area. Have your children memorize their address and understand how to contact and communicate their information to your local fire department, as well as 911 and be sure to teach them all that you learn about fire safety so that your family can work as an educated team to prevent fires in your home and best act if they occur! For additional information about fire prevention and safety, contact your local fire departments.
The Round Rock Fire Department | 203 Commerce Blvd.
Round Rock, Texas 78664
Phone: (512) 218-5590
The Sam Bass Fire Department | 16248 Great Oaks Dr.
Round Rock, Texas 78681
Phone: (512) 255-0100