I Have A Central Heating System. Should I Have It Checked?
Central heating systems should be professionally inspected, cleaned, and serviced at least every other every year. Many companies offer discounted rates for a maintenance call versus an emergency repair.
What About Space Heaters?
Space heaters can be dangerous if not used following general safety guidelines. Check your owners manuals for general maintenance and cleaning instructions. Each season before using space heaters, inspect them for damage, including the power cord, and test for proper operation. It is more economical to replace older units than to have them repaired. Newer units are safer and more economical to operate. Discard old faulty space heaters in a way that they cannot be used by someone else.
What About Gasoline-Powered Equipment?
Flammable liquids should not be stored in inside the home. This includes any unused fuel in a motor’s fuel tank. Store this equipment in a proper secure environment away from living spaces and drain excess fuel out of the tank before storing. This simple safety precaution will help prevent accidental fires caused by escaping fuel vapors.
Do I Need to Check My Smoke Detector?
Don’t assume this life saving appliance works just by looking at it. Smoke detectors require some basic maintenance to make sure they will work properly. Nuisance or false alarms are the number one cause for battery removal and are usually caused by installing units to close to the kitchen and or heating vents. Relocate units closer to or inside sleeping areas to prevent false alarms.
· Replace the battery when necessary or twice a year.
· Clean dust and cob webs from around the cover to let air flow inside.
· Replace units that are ten years old or if reliability is in question.
· Push the test button once a month to make sure it works properly.
I Have A Home Escape Plan, But Will It Work?
To be sure your plan works, involve everyone in the home - especially children. Physically practicing the plan helps to identify any unforeseen difficulties anyone may have when trying to escape.
· Designate one meeting place for everyone to gather after evacuating.
· Children need to know how to save themselves when no one can help them.
· Practice the plan once a year or anytime living arrangements change in the home. |