Spring is not only a time to tidy up and clean those old boxes out of the garage. It is also an opportunity to make your house safer and more secure.
When you are writing down your Spring Cleaning chore list, here are a few tasks that TiTan Alarms suggests Tulsa area homeowners take to protect themselves.
Prevent Dryer Fire
First, start in your laundry room. Did you know that dryers can be one of the most destructive items in your home? According to the National Fire Prevention Association, “In 2014-2018, local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 13,820 home structure fires per year in which dryers were involved in the ignition. These fires caused an average of seven civilian deaths, 344 civilian injuries, and $233 million in direct property damage annually.”
The key to preventing a devastating dryer fire is to make sure it is clean of lint, dust and other particles which may catch fire due to the dryer’s heat. Cleaning must include inside the machine and in the vents. Dryers which vent out through the attic and roof are especially dangerous.
Seasonal Safety Checks
Poorly installed and aging wiring are also household fire dangers. TheHartford.com writes there are specific danger signs to look for when it comes to wiring: “Flickering or dimming lights; Switches or outlets that are hot to touch and/or emit an acrid odors; Discolored cords, outlets and switch plates;
Repeatedly blown fuses and tripped circuit breakers.”
When you do update your appliances or remodel to improve your home, be sure to update your insurance company. If something does happen, you want a record of everything which would need replacing and its value.
TiTan also recommends your first line of defense be your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Many people test these detectors a few times a year, and spring cleaning is a reminder to check them. Daylight Savings Time is a good reminder. When you spring forward, give your detectors a check.
Carbon monoxide is a particular danger for Oklahomans during times of severe weather. During winter storms and power outages, the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning rises. Vents blocked by snow or storm debris, or the use of generators, increase potential problems.
TiTan Secure
TiTan Alarms offers a free annual home security check. Our professional, trusted and local team will come to your home and identify potential problems and recommend proven solutions.
Our team is just a phone call away for customers in the Tulsa area – 918-777-SAFE (7233). We look forward to helping you learn why Tulsa Trusts TiTan.