Let’s get you started with the following residential fire safety tips for the springtime.
Warmer weather is approaching as winter transitions into springtime. For many homeowners, warmer weather may signify yard work and spring cleaning. However, it should also be a time to consider fire safety around the household. This way, you can keep your loved ones safe in the new season! Let’s get you started with the following residential fire safety tips for the springtime.
Clean Out Your Dryer Vents
If you keep a dryer in your home, you must clean it out at least once yearly and ideally every six months if you perform a lot of laundry, such as in families with children. If you are uncertain how to do it, make sure to employ a professional to do it correctly.
You should also ensure the air exhaust vent pipe (outside your home) is not restricted and the flap opens when the dryer operates. Keep anything combustible, such as cleaning supplies or boxes, away from the dryer. Of course, the lint trap must also be cleaned out after every cycle. Overall, these essential steps can go a long way in terms of fire safety.
Inspect Your BBQ Grill
Before hosting your first springtime barbecue, you want to ensure your grill is functioning correctly. Complete a full inspection, examining for fat or grease buildup, spider webs, or other debris. If you utilize a gas grill, confirm the propane tank hose has no leaks before you use it. Another note: grills must be at least 10 feet away from the house, decks, and other structures when in use.
Adequately Dispose of Yard Waste
Other fire safety tips include:
- Pine needles, fallen leaves, dead branches, and pulled weeds can fuel a fire – you want to avoid having these near your home.
- Eliminate all dead plants and other combustible materials from around your house, mainly within the first five feet of space surrounding the house.
- Make sure the gutters are clean and that pine needles and dead leaves are eliminated from the roof, too.
- Keep trash and wood piles at least 30 feet from your home and other sheds or buildings. These steps will help protect your home from fire risks.
Smoke Detector Battery Replacement
Lastly, spring is the perfect time to replace the batteries in your smoke detectors since it should be done at least once a year. When you perform this, test each detector to ensure they are functioning, and take some time to discuss your fire escape plan with your family. Practice the strategy to ensure everyone in the household understands what to do in a fire emergency.
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Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, call Judd Fire Protection at 410-871-3480. Follow us on Facebook, X, and Pinterest.