Even though there is the potential for some snow in the forecast this weekend, spring is officially here, and that means it’s time to pull out those cleaning supplies, declutter the house, and spruce up the yard. While you’re at it, we have ten tips that can help make your home safer, and more secure.
- We can’t stress enough the importance of working smoke detectors in your home, so if you forgot to replace your smoke detector batteries last month when you changed the clocks ahead, please take a few minutes to do so. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there have already been 764 civilian home fire fatalities reported in the U.S. news media since January 1, 2016.
- Take the time to go through the attic, basement, or cluttered closets and donate, recycle, and/or throw away any unneeded, accumulated items such as newspapers, magazines, packaging, boxes, and clothing, all of which become potential fire hazards when stored in large quantities.
- While often overlooked, not cleaning the clothes dryer vent can pose a significant fire hazard. When the highly combustible lint accumulates, it reduces the airflow, which can increase the temperature enough to ignite it! The proper steps to cleaning your vent can be found here. You can also reduce the likelihood of a clothes dryer fire by vacuuming inside of the lint trap and checking for lint and debris (like all of those missing socks!) around and beneath the dryer.
- Check all electrical cords, especially extension cords used outside, for any possible damage. Be sure to inspect the plugs, and length of the cord for any cuts, breaks, or strains. Extension cords that spend time outside are more susceptible brittleness and cracking, even more so if regularly exposed to direct sunlight. If the insulation is damaged or there are wires visible, replace them right away as they are in danger of creating a short, which can easily start a fire.
- Test all windows, not only to ensure that their locks are working properly, but that they can be quickly and easily opened from the inside, should you need to use one as an emergency exit.
- Also examine all doors that lead to the outside, making sure that they seal completely and that all locks and deadbolts are working properly. Not only is having a secure home important; with warmer months already on their way, even a small gap around a door will make your air conditioner have to work harder. This not only affects your comfort, but can significantly increase your electric bill.
- Large bushes and hedges that are close to the house can provide burglars with an easy hiding spot or a means for easier entry through a window, trimming them regularly can help reduce this risk.
- If you haven’t been grilling all winter, make sure inspect the fuel line, and propane tank for any damage, or leaks. Also be sure to fully secure the propane tank and fuel line connection before using.
- While cleaning, keep all chemicals and hazardous cleaning materials out of reach of children and animals; it is equally important that they are stored properly, under lock and key, when not in use.
- When working with, or disposing of, and potentially hazardous chemicals, never use the same container to mix them, which could cause a deadly reaction and check with your local municipality for disposal programs, or instructions on proper disposal methods.
Adding these small measures to your spring cleaning routine can help ensure that you and your loved ones are ready for a great spring and summer! If you have any additional tips, we’d love to see them in the comments section below.
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