Disasters can occur at any time, so we need to be prepared 24/7. Some disasters can be avoided or mitigated using preventive measures while others require us to find ways of minimising the severity of their effects. One way of preparing your home for emergencies is to have safety items and learn how to use them. Below are some of the ways to safety proof your home.
Smoke Alarm
More than half of all residential building fires In the United States are cooking related fires started in the kitchen. Smoke detectors help homeowners to avoid fatalities in fire disasters by raising the alarm when the fire is still relatively small and able to be controlled by a fire extinguisher, fire blanket or similar method.
Smoke detectors raise the alarm when the fire is in its initial stages, meaning you can evacuate safely before flames block the escape routes. Statistics show that, tragically, most fire deaths occur in homes without fire alarms or where smoke detectors were faulty. It is, therefore, essential to test the detectors every month and change the batteries every year.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a must-have safety item in every home and institution. Not only do these kits help save lives in case of an emergency but they are also useful when dealing with common home injuries. You can purchase pre-assembled kits or buy each item separately to make your kit. There are different standards for the first aid kits, depending on the various needs of the people who will use them. A simple first aid kit would likely be enough for your home but a full-sized kit would not hurt. Regularly check the expiry dates and restock used items. Attending first aid training will also educate you on how to use a first aid kit properly.
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Carbon monoxide is one of the deadliest gases in the world. Colourless and odourless, carbon monoxide is a silent killer. In a small or poorly ventilated space, it can be particularly deadly. Having a carbon monoxide detector outside each bedroom in your house as well as on every separate level of the house is the best way of protecting yourself from this gas. Remember, only functional detectors save lives so make sure you test your detectors every month.
Fire Blankets
The kitchen has a lot of possible fire sources like electric kettles, gas burners and the open flames we use to cook. The massive number of fire sources in the kitchen outlines the clear need for fire safety equipment. The best fire prevention tool for use in the kitchen is the fire blanket. A fire blanket works by eliminating the oxygen supply in the fire making it easy and safe to use.
Emergency Plan
Having an emergency plan can helps you react quickly and calmly in case of an emergency. The first step in coming up with an emergency plan is finding the safest place to take shelter in case of emergencies like earthquakes and tornados. You should also have a meeting point where everyone should assemble for a headcount after the emergency and create a family communication plan. Family members should have the emergency numbers such as the police station, a nearby hospital and an out of area emergency contact. The last step is to get the emergency plan down on paper and displayed for everyone to memorise.
Backyard Grooming
Sometimes fires can start in the backyard and spread into the house catching onto flammable debris or clutter. Some backyard activities like barbecuing can unwittingly start a fire but, if the fire is clean and free of clutter, the fire won’t be able to spread. Conduct regular backyard maintenance activities to reduce the chances of a fire emergency.
Conclusion
The above safety methods can prevent major disasters at home and also help you minimise fatalities and injuries in case of an emergency. Remember, it is up to you to be prepared for accidents and keep your family safe. If you’re interested in finding out more about how to control fire and chemical hazards around your home, head to Storemasta.
