How to Safeguard Your Home from Fire

Everyone knows that fire is dangerous, but what about the havoc it can wreak on your home? Tackett Insurance Inc. wants every Memphis, TN homeowner to learn more about the common causes of house fires, how to detect and prevent them, and the first steps you should take if your home catches fire.

Keep Smoke Alarms Maintained

Many homeowners fail to maintain their smoke alarms properly. An alarm that does not work can’t sound a warning, so when a fire occurs, there’s no way to know about it until it’s too late. To ensure your smoke alarms work properly, clean them and check the battery at least once a year. Replace the entire unit every ten years.

Practice Safe Home Heating

It’s easy to get comfortable heating with a furnace or space heater, but you should also be mindful of the fire risks. Create a safe heating environment by keeping curtains and drapes away from heat sources. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including wooden furniture.

Get Your Electrical System Checked

A well-maintained electrical system can save you from a costly fire. A fire can start when a faulty appliance causes an electrical short, causing an electrical fire. Have your electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician to ensure the wires in your home are safely connected and that no wires are exposed. If you notice any exposed wires, have them quickly covered with a plastic sheath to prevent a short from occurring. If you have a natural gas system, inspect your gas line to ensure it’s safely insulated and that no cracks or holes are present.

Summary

Fire can cause significant damage to your home and can be frightening. Knowing what causes fires and how to prevent them can be helpful. Even if you do everything correctly, unforeseen troubles can cause fire damage and loss to your home. If you live in Memphis, TN, and need a home insurance policy to protect yourself from the cost of fire damage, please reach out to Tackett Insurance Inc. today.