As a home or business owner, there is perhaps no greater responsibility than ensuring your family or staff is safe and sound. There is a broad range of potential issues and threats, but certainly at the top of the list is fire safety and prevention. This is especially notable during Fire Safety Prevention Week October 6-12, 2019.
One of the leading causes of structure fires – both residential and commercial – is faulty electrical systems or other appliance issues. That’s why today we are providing 6 fire safety tips for your home and/or business.
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL FIRE SAFETY
Prevent fires by being prepared in the event your home or business is threatened by one:
- Install smoke alarms on every level—especially near bedrooms. Test them monthly and replace batteries every 2-3 months.
- Refrain from smoking indoors and leaving candles burning unattended.
- Fireplaces and heaters should be cleaned regularly. Make sure portable heaters are positioned away from furniture and window coverings and where they cannot be knocked over.
- Make sure a fire extinguisher is available in case the need arises. Better safe than sorry.
- Plan an escape route in the event of fire. Practice it with your family or staff and NEVER go back into a burning building for any reason.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning is a serious threat during heating season. Regular maintenance of your home or business’s heating systems can help detect and prevent CO leaks. Your friends at Armstrong Plumbing, Air & Electric offers complete commercial HVAC services to the entire Lubbock, Texas area, including inspections and installations.
HOME ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Here are some bonus electrical safety tips you can follow for your home:
TAKE NOTE OF OUTLETS & FREQUENTLY BLOWN FUSES
Discolored or worn outlet covers can be a sign of a potentially hazardous electrical issue, such as smoldering, arcing or other issues caused by damaged or faulty wiring. The same can be said of frequently tripped or blown breakers and fuses. These issues could be fire hazards and should be addressed immediately.
STABLE LIGHTING
A main electrical cause for fires is lighting: faulty wiring or defects with light fixtures, light bulbs, and lamps. Keep an eye on any lighting problems—this can be an indication of a more serious issue.
SCHEDULE AN INSPECTION
One of the most preventive measures you can take is to schedule an inspection. Our licensed electricians will take a fine-toothed comb over all the electrical systems and equipment in your home and diagnose and correct any potential electrical or fire safety concerns.
Better Call Armstrong today to schedule your home or business maintenance, repair or your HVAC or electrical estimate. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.