Preventing Candle Fires in Your Home

4/17/2024 (Permalink)

Candles can create a cozy and calming ambiance in any home, but they also pose a fire hazard if not used safely. Each year, candle-related fires cause damage to homes and personal belongings, leading to the need for fire damage restoration. Preventing candle fires is crucial in safeguarding your property and loved ones. In this blog, we will explore essential tips to help you use candles responsibly and minimize the risk of fire damage in your home.

Never Leave Candles Unattended

One of the most critical safety measures when using candles is to never leave them unattended. Always extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to bed. It only takes a few seconds for an unattended candle to ignite nearby objects, potentially causing extensive fire damage to your home and personal belongings.

Keep Candles Away from Flammable Materials

Ensure candles are placed at least one foot away from any flammable objects, such as curtains, papers, or furniture. Keep in mind that flames can flicker, and it's essential to provide enough space to prevent accidental ignition. By maintaining a safe distance, you reduce the risk of fire damage and smoke damage to your belongings.

Use Sturdy Candle Holders

When selecting candle holders, choose sturdy and non-combustible materials that can withstand the heat of a burning candle. Avoid using flammable materials, such as plastic or wood, as they may ignite and contribute to a fire. Make sure candle holders are stable and will not tip over easily, especially if they are placed on a surface that can be easily bumped.

Trim Candle Wicks

Before lighting a candle, ensure the wick is trimmed to approximately a quarter of an inch. Long or uneven wicks can result in larger flames, causing the candle to burn too hot and increasing the risk of fire. Regularly trimming the wick helps control the burn and reduces the chances of fire damage.

Place Candles in a Draft-Free Area

Avoid placing candles in areas with drafts, as the breeze can cause the flames to flicker and potentially ignite nearby items. Drafts can come from open windows, fans, air conditioning vents, or high-traffic areas. Make sure candles are placed in a stable location where they won't be easily disturbed by air movement.

Use Alternatives to Open Flame Candles

Consider using flameless candles or battery-operated LED candles as a safer alternative to open-flame candles. They provide a similar ambiance without the risk of fire damage. Flameless candles still provide a warm glow and can be a great option for households with pets or small children.

Practice Smart Candle Placement

Choose the location for your candles wisely. Avoid placing candles in areas where children or pets can accidentally knock them over. Additionally, keep candles out of reach of curious hands or wagging tails. Opt for higher surfaces that are not easily accessible.

Enjoying the calming glow of candles in your home can be a delightful experience, but it is essential to prioritize safety to prevent candle-related fires. By following these tips, you can minimize the risk of fire damage to your home and personal belongings. Remember, never leave candles unattended, keep them away from flammable materials, and use sturdy candle holders. Trim the wicks, place candles in draft-free areas, and consider alternatives to open-flame candles. By practicing smart candle usage, you can create a cozy atmosphere without compromising the safety of your home. In the event of a fire, trust the certified professionals at SERVPRO® for comprehensive fire damage restoration, including the restoration of your cherished personal belongings.

Mold in Crawl Spaces: Prevention and Remediation

3/13/2024 (Permalink)

We will explore the reasons behind mold in crawl spaces and provide tips on how to remediate and prevent mold effectively.

Having mold in your crawl space can be a common and concerning issue for homeowners. While mold growth poses potential risks to your property, it is important to understand the causes and effective prevention and remediation strategies for tackling mold in crawl spaces. In this blog, we will explore the reasons behind mold in crawl spaces and provide tips on how to remediate and prevent mold effectively. 

Causes of Mold in Crawl Spaces

Crawl spaces offer a perfect environment for mold growth due to various contributing factors. Understanding these causes will help you prevent mold in your crawl space. Here are some common causes:

• Moisture: Excess moisture is the primary culprit behind mold growth in crawl spaces. Moisture can enter crawl spaces through the ground, foundation cracks or leaks, plumbing issues, or inadequate drainage. Once moisture accumulates in the space, it promotes the growth of mold.
• Poor Ventilation: Inadequate ventilation in crawl spaces hampers airflow, allowing moisture and humidity to build up. The lack of proper airflow creates a damp environment that is conducive to mold growth.
• Insufficient Insulation: Improper or insufficient insulation can lead to condensation in crawl spaces. If warm, humid air comes into contact with cooler crawl space surfaces, condensation occurs, providing the ideal conditions for mold growth.

Remediation of Mold in Crawl Spaces

If you discover mold in your crawl space, taking immediate remediation measures is essential to prevent further damage. Follow these effective strategies:

• Identify and Fix the Source of Moisture: Start by identifying and resolving the source of moisture in your crawl space. Look for plumbing leaks, foundation cracks, or other areas where water may be entering. Fixing these issues is crucial to prevent recurring mold growth.
• Improve Ventilation: Enhancing ventilation is vital in reducing moisture levels. Consider installing vents or fans to promote air circulation in your crawl space. Ventilation can help remove excess moisture and prevent mold growth.
• Remove Mold-Infested Materials: If there are porous materials in your crawl space that have been extensively affected by mold, such as insulation or wooden beams, it may be necessary to remove and replace them to eliminate the mold thoroughly.
• Clean and Disinfect: Using a mold cleaner recommended for use in crawl spaces, scrub the affected areas thoroughly to remove visible mold growth. Ensure that you clean both the surfaces and the surrounding area to prevent further contamination.
• Encapsulate the Crawl Space: Encapsulation involves sealing the crawl space with a moisture-resistant barrier to prevent moisture intrusion. This method can help control humidity levels and prevent future mold growth.

Prevention of Mold in Crawl Spaces

Prevention is key to avoiding mold in your crawl space. Here are some preventive measures:

• Install Vapor Barriers: Lay down vapor barriers on the ground to prevent moisture from seeping into your crawl space. These barriers act as a protective layer between the ground and your crawl space, reducing the potential for mold growth.
• Maintain Proper Drainage: Ensure that your gutters are directing water away from your foundation. Regularly check and clean your drains to prevent any blockages that may cause water to pool around your crawl space.
• Monitor Humidity Levels: Consider installing a dehumidifier in your crawl space to maintain humidity levels below 50 percent. Monitoring and controlling humidity significantly reduce the chances of mold growth.
• Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections of your crawl space to catch any potential issues such as leaks or condensation before they escalate. Promptly addressing these issues can prevent mold growth.

Understanding the causes, remediation, and prevention strategies is crucial when dealing with mold in crawl spaces. By addressing moisture sources, improving ventilation, and implementing preventive measures, you can effectively remediate existing mold and prevent its recurrence. Regular maintenance, inspections, and vigilance will help ensure a clean and mold-free environment in your crawl space.

Essential Fire Damage Preparedness Tips for Property Managers

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

Fire damage preparedness is a critical aspect of property management.

As a property manager, one of your top priorities is ensuring the safety and well-being of your tenants and the properties you oversee. Fire damage can be devastating, causing significant property loss, disruption, and potential harm to occupants. By implementing proactive fire damage preparedness measures, property managers can help minimize risks, protect their investments, and keep tenants safe. In this blog, we will explore essential fire damage preparedness tips specifically tailored for property managers.

Conduct Regular Fire Inspections and Maintenance

Schedule routine inspections of the property's fire safety systems, including smoke detectors, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers. Ensure that they are properly installed, functioning correctly, and meet current fire codes and regulations. Regular maintenance and testing will help identify and address any potential issues promptly.

Develop and Communicate Fire Safety Policies

Create clear fire safety policies for the property, outlining evacuation procedures, designated assembly areas, and emergency contact information. Communicate these policies to all tenants and regularly remind them of the importance of fire safety practices, such as not blocking fire exits, keeping common areas clear of flammable materials, and reporting any potential fire hazards.

Provide Fire Safety Training and Resources

Organize fire safety training sessions for both property staff and tenants. This training should cover essential topics such as fire prevention, evacuation procedures, and proper usage of fire extinguishers. Additionally, equip common areas and units with fire safety resources, including informational posters, escape route diagrams and emergency contact information prominently displayed.

Maintain Adequate Fire Insurance Coverage

Ensure that the property has comprehensive fire insurance coverage to protect against potential damages. Regularly review and update the insurance policy to reflect any changes in the property's value or renovations. It is advisable to consult with an insurance professional to understand the specific coverage needed for your property.

Establish Relationships with Fire Professionals

Develop partnerships with reputable fire protection companies and disaster restoration specialists. These experts can provide valuable guidance, conduct thorough fire risk assessments, and assist in creating comprehensive emergency response plans. Having trusted professionals readily available can expedite the restoration process in case of fire-related incidents.

Create an Emergency Response Plan

Work with your team to establish a detailed emergency response plan specifically tailored for fire incidents. This plan should outline roles and responsibilities, evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and coordination with local fire departments. Regularly practice fire drills to ensure that all staff and tenants are familiar with the procedures and can respond quickly and efficiently in an emergency.

Fire damage preparedness is a critical aspect of property management. By implementing these fire safety tips, property managers can proactively protect their investments, minimize risks, and ensure the safety of tenants. Remember, prevention is key, but in the unfortunate event of a fire, prompt action and cooperation with trusted fire restoration professionals will aid in swift recovery and restoration.

At SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo, we specialize in fire damage restoration and are here to assist property managers in mitigating the effects of fire incidents. Our experienced team is equipped with the knowledge and resources to restore properties efficiently and effectively, minimizing downtime and ensuring a safe environment for occupants.

Common Types of Storm Damage in California

1/11/2024 (Permalink)

Our experienced team specializes in storm damage restoration and can help mitigate the effects of water, fire, and structural damage.

California, known for its diverse landscapes and beautiful weather, can also experience severe storms that pose risks to homes and properties. Understanding the common types of storm damage and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the impact on your property. Let's delve into some of the typical storm damage scenarios in California and how you can safeguard your home.

Heavy Rain and Flood Damage

California occasionally faces heavy rainfall, leading to flooding. To prevent flood damage:

• Ensure proper drainage around your property by cleaning gutters and downspouts regularly.
• Install sump pumps and consider elevating appliances and electrical systems if you live in flood-prone areas.
• Seal any foundation cracks and invest in flood barriers or sandbags as a preventive measure.

Wildfires and Fire Damage

California is susceptible to wildfires, especially in dry seasons. To protect against fire damage:

• Clear flammable debris from around your home, maintaining a defensible space.
• Use fire-resistant materials for roofing and siding.
• Keep an accessible and functional fire extinguisher in your home and create an evacuation plan.

Strong Winds and Structural Damage

High winds during storms can cause significant structural damage. Consider these measures:

• Regularly inspect and maintain your roof for loose shingles or weak spots.
• Trim overhanging branches and secure outdoor furniture and objects that could become projectiles.
• Reinforce garage doors and windows with impact-resistant materials or shutters.

Mudslides and Erosion

In hilly or mountainous regions, heavy rains can trigger mudslides. Mitigate these risks:

• Plant vegetation and install retaining walls to prevent soil erosion.
• Divert water away from slopes by using drainage systems and redirecting downspouts.

Power Outages and Electrical Damage

Lightning strikes or strong storms can cause power outages and electrical issues. Consider these precautions:

• Invest in surge protectors to safeguard electronics and appliances.
• Inspect and maintain your electrical system, and consider installing a generator for backup power.

Remember, preparation is key to minimizing storm damage. Create an emergency kit with essentials, including water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first aid supplies. Stay informed about weather forecasts and heed evacuation warnings if issued.

By staying proactive and implementing preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the impact of storms on your home in California. Don't wait until the last minute; take action now to protect your property and loved ones.

In case your property experiences storm damage, contact SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo for immediate assistance. Our experienced team specializes in storm damage restoration and can help mitigate the effects of water, fire, and structural damage.

10 Tips for Preventing Water Damage

12/20/2023 (Permalink)

While Marina Del Rey offers picturesque views of the ocean, it's crucial for homeowners to protect their properties from potential water damage. In this blog, we'll provide essential DIY tips to help you prevent water damage and preserve the beauty and value of your Marina Del Rey home.

1. Maintain Your Roof

A well-maintained roof is your first line of defense against water intrusion. Inspect your roof regularly for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or signs of wear. Repair any issues promptly to prevent leaks during heavy rain.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water overflowing and causing damage to your home's foundation. Clean them regularly to ensure proper water drainage away from your property.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

Check for gaps or cracks around windows and doors. Seal any openings with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent rainwater from seeping indoors.

4. Inspect Plumbing

Regularly inspect your plumbing for leaks, especially in areas prone to water damage like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Fix any leaks promptly to prevent further damage.

5. Test Sump Pump

If your home has a sump pump, ensure it is in working order. Test it periodically to make sure it can effectively remove excess water from your basement or crawl space.

6. Install a Water Alarm

Consider installing water alarms in vulnerable areas of your home, such as the basement or near water heaters and appliances. These alarms can alert you to potential leaks or flooding.

7. Maintain Landscaping

Proper landscaping can help prevent water from pooling near your foundation. Ensure the ground slopes away from your home, and use mulch or gravel to improve drainage.

8. Regularly Inspect Appliances

Appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators can develop leaks over time. Check hoses and connections regularly and replace them if you notice signs of wear.

9. Store Valuables Wisely

Store valuable items and important documents in waterproof containers or on elevated shelves, especially if you have a basement or are at risk of flooding.

10. Be Prepared for Storms

Monitor weather forecasts, especially during the rainy season. Consider investing in sandbags or flood barriers to protect your property if severe weather is expected.

Preventing water damage in your Marina Del Rey home is a proactive step in maintaining your property's value and your family's safety and comfort. While these DIY tips can help you mitigate potential risks, it's essential to be prepared for unexpected water damage events. If you ever face water damage in your home, SERVPRO® is here to assist you. Our team has the expertise and equipment to handle water damage restoration promptly and effectively, ensuring your home is back to its pre-damage condition. Stay proactive, stay prepared, and enjoy the beauty of Marina Del Rey without worrying about water damage.

How to Remove Dryer Lint from the Exhaust

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

Regularly removing lint from your dryer's exhaust system is a crucial maintenance task that promotes efficient drying and prevents potential fire hazards. Over time, lint can accumulate in the exhaust vent, restricting airflow and increasing the risk of dryer fires. In this blog post, we will guide you through the essential steps to safely and effectively remove dryer lint from the exhaust, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing fire risks.

Turn Off the Dryer and Unplug It

Before starting any maintenance on your dryer, ensure that it is turned off and unplugged from the power source. This precaution is necessary to avoid any potential accidents while working on the appliance.

The dryer exhaust vent is typically located at the back of the dryer, where the flexible or rigid duct connects to the machine. Sometimes, the vent may be located on the side or the top of the dryer. Locate the vent and prepare for the lint removal process.

Disconnect the Dryer from the Vent

Depending on the type of vent connection, you may need to loosen or unscrew the clamps or fasteners that hold the duct in place. Carefully disconnect the dryer from the vent, ensuring not to damage any components or connections in the process.

Go outside your home and locate the exterior vent opening. Remove any visible lint or debris from the vent cover using your hands or a brush. This step helps ensure that the expelled air can flow freely and prevents any blockages.

Remove Lint from the Duct

Using a flexible brush or a specialized dryer vent cleaning kit, carefully insert the brush or attachment into the dryer duct. Gently push the brush in, rotating it as you go to dislodge and collect the trapped lint. Pull out the brush or attachment periodically to remove the accumulated lint. Repeat this process until you have thoroughly cleaned the entire length of the duct.

After cleaning the dryer duct, inspect the vent connection on both the dryer and the wall or floor. Remove any lint or debris from these areas, ensuring a clean and unobstructed connection. Reconnect the duct to the dryer, making sure it is securely fastened.

Perform a Test Run

Once you have reconnected the dryer, plug it back in and turn it on. Run a test cycle to ensure that the dryer is functioning properly and that air is flowing freely through the exhaust vent. Monitor the operation for any signs of restricted airflow or unusual noises, which may indicate further maintenance is required.

To prevent future lint buildup, make a habit of cleaning the dryer exhaust vent at least once a year. However, if you notice reduced drying efficiency or experience any unusual issues, consider more frequent cleaning. Regularly clean the lint trap inside the dryer after each use to minimize lint accumulation in the exhaust system.

Removing lint from your dryer's exhaust vent is a simple yet crucial maintenance task that promotes safety and efficiency. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can effectively clear the lint buildup, ensuring optimal dryer performance and minimizing the risk of fire hazards. Remember to perform regular maintenance and keep the dryer exhaust vent clean to ensure a safe and efficient drying process for years to come.

Uncovering the Truth: Does Your Commercial Insurance Policy Cover Mold Damage?

6/8/2023 (Permalink)

Mold damage is the result of mold infestation. Mold spores are microscopic, but Mold can spread quickly.  When you see or smell mold, it's important to take action before the problem gets worse. If you have a commercial insurance policy that covers mold damage and your property has been affected by it, then you may be able to get reimbursed for any repairs or replacements that were necessary after the incident occurred.

What Does Commercial Insurance Cover?

Commercial insurance policies come in a variety of types, but they all share the same basic coverage for mold damage. The following are some common commercial insurance policies:

• Business owners policy (BOP)
• Commercial property policy (CPP)
• General liability insurance (GL)
• Workers compensation insurance (WCI)

How Do I File a Claim for Mold Damage?

To file a claim for mold damage, you will need to document the damage and estimate the cost of repair. You can use this information to help you file your insurance claim.

Once your home has been cleaned up and repaired, be sure to take pictures of the area before repairs are made so that you have a record of what it looked like before any work was done. If there were any items damaged by water or mold (such as furniture), take photos of those items as well so that they can be replaced with new ones by your insurance company if necessary.

The next step is estimating how much money it will cost to repair all of these damages--and this might include more than just replacing damaged property with new items: if there were structural issues related directly with mold growth (such as cracking walls), then those costs may also need factored into determining how much money should be reimbursed by an insurer once they've reviewed all available documentation provided by homeowners who filed claims against them following such incidents occurring within their homes' walls.

How Can I Avoid Mold Damage?

When it comes to preventing mold damage, there are a few things you can do. First, maintain proper humidity levels in your building by using a dehumidifier or air conditioner if necessary. Second, regularly inspect for signs of mold and fix any water damage quickly. If you have an area in your building where moisture is an issue (such as near plumbing), consider installing a ventilation system that will help keep the air dryer and less hospitable to mold growth.

What Should I Do If I Have a Mold Problem?

If you think you have a mold problem, the first thing to do is hire a professional mold removal service. These companies have trained technicians who can identify and remove all traces of mold from your property. They'll also make sure that their work is done safely and according to industry standards.

Mold is a serious problem that can cause significant damage to your business. If you have any questions about mold insurance and how it works, contact SERVPRO® today!

Preventing Disaster: Understanding the Leading Causes of Home Fires

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

Home fires are a devastating and often preventable tragedy. Fires can quickly spread, destroying homes and belongings, and causing injury or even death. It's important to understand the leading causes of home fires in order to prevent them from occurring.

Cooking-related fires are the leading cause of home fires. This can happen when food is left unattended on the stove or in the oven, or when cooking oil ignites. To prevent cooking-related fires, it's important to stay in the kitchen when cooking and keep flammable objects like towels and oven mitts away from heat sources. It's also important to keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it in case of an emergency.

Heating equipment, such as space heaters and wood stoves, is another common cause of home fires. These fires can occur when heating equipment is too close to flammable objects, like curtains or furniture, or when the equipment is not properly maintained. To prevent heating-related fires, it's important to keep a safe distance between heating equipment and flammable objects, and to have the equipment inspected and maintained regularly by a professional.

Electrical fires are also a common cause of home fires. This can happen when electrical appliances are left on for extended periods of time, or when faulty wiring causes a spark. To prevent electrical fires, it's important to use appliances according to their instructions, avoid overloading electrical outlets, and have faulty wiring repaired by a licensed electrician.

Smoking-related fires are another common cause of home fires. These fires can occur when smoking materials, such as cigarettes or cigars, are not properly extinguished. To prevent smoking-related fires, it's important to avoid smoking indoors, and to always use a fire-safe ashtray.

Candles are a common cause of home fires. This can happen when candles are left unattended, or when they are placed too close to flammable objects. To prevent candle-related fires, it's important to never leave candles unattended, and to keep them away from curtains, bedding, and other flammable objects.

In addition to these common causes of home fires, it's important to also be aware of other potential fire hazards, such as children playing with matches or lighters, and flammable liquids like gasoline or propane.

Preventing home fires requires diligence and awareness. By understanding the leading causes of home fires and taking steps to prevent them, we can help keep our homes and families safe. It's important to have working smoke detectors installed in the home and to regularly test them to ensure they are functioning properly. Have an escape plan in place and make sure everyone in the household knows what to do in case of a fire emergency. Taking these steps can help prevent home fires and save lives.

Prepare your company for a Storm

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

Hurricanes, typhoons, and other types of storms can strike suddenly and without warning. If you're a business owner or manager who lives in an area prone to severe weather events, it's important to be prepared for any potential damage that could occur during these storms. Having proper insurance coverage is one way to protect your company's assets, but there are other things you should do before a storm hits as well.

Determine your risk.

The first step to preparing your company for a storm is determining your risk. There are many factors that go into determining how much exposure you have, and it's important to understand them all before deciding how much money should be put aside for disaster relief.

• What is the nature of your business? If you run an e-commerce site, for example, then the risk of losing internet access during a storm may not be as great as if you own an auto repair shop in New York City (which would obviously suffer more damage).
• How likely is it that a particular type of weather event could occur? For example: Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 each year, however there are other types of storms that can happen at other times during the year.

Prepare for the worst.

The first step is to prepare for the worst. This means having a plan in place for when you're without power, water, food and medical care for days at a time.

If you run an office or business with employees or customers who rely on your facility in order to do their jobs--or if they simply need it as a meeting place--you need to make sure that everyone knows what they should do if there's an evacuation order issued by local authorities. Have your company documents in proper order. Make sure you have copies of all important documents, keep in a secure location, and make sure they are up to date, including insurance documentation.

Perform a property inventory and inspection.

If your company was affected by a storm, it's important to document the damage and make sure you have proof of what happened. Take photos of any damage to your building, including trees that may have fallen onto or near it. Also take photos of any storm-related problems with utilities (gas, water and electricity). If there is evidence of structural damage from wind or flooding in surrounding areas such as broken windows or downed power lines on neighboring properties, take pictures of those too.

Inspect the Roofing and Building

If it's safe to do so, inspect the roof of your building and surrounding areas, including trees near the building or on nearby properties. Look for damage to the roof and any signs of leaks. Check for loose tiles or other debris that could be blown away in the wind. Also look for any trees that may have fallen on your building or nearby properties, as well as wires that may have been damaged during winds or lightning strikes.

Protect Doors and Windows

If you have glass doors and windows, put up temporary protection for them that can be removed after the storm. You can use plywood, plastic sheeting or tarps to cover the window frames. Secure these covers with rope or bungee cords so they don't blow away in high winds. Avoid using nails or screws because they may become loose during a hurricane and damage someone's property when they come loose during a storm surge (a rise in sea level caused by strong winds). Tape will also lose its adhesion after being exposed to humidity for an extended period of time

Stay away from floodwaters

Stay away from floodwaters. Don't ever drink floodwater, even if it looks clear. Don't use floodwater for cleaning purposes, it may contain chemicals such as oil, gasoline and sewage. Do not swim in any standing water; swimming pools are usually safe because they have been chlorinated, but ponds, lakes and rivers may not be so clean.

Following these tips after a storm can help reduce flood damage and ensure your business is back up and running quickly. SERVPRO has the experience and expertise to return your property back to pre storm conditions. 

Tips to Keep your family safe incase of a Fire

2/15/2023 (Permalink)

Fire is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). While there are many safety measures that you can take to protect yourself, including installing smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in your home and practicing fire drills with your children, there's one thing that people often forget, testing your smoke detectors and having a fire escape plan incase of a fire emergency.

How often should you test them? That depends on several factors. If you have central air conditioning or heat that automatically kicks on when it senses smoke, then it may be best to test them once a month. Monthly tests are ideal because this allows homeowners time to notice any problems before they become serious issues. Here's what else you need to know about checking your home's safety against fire hazards:

Check your Smoke Alarms Monthly

If you have a hardwired smoke alarm, check the wiring and make sure that there are no exposed wires. If you have a battery-operated smoke alarm, replace the batteries. If you have a combination smoke alarm (a type of device that combines both smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector), replace the batteries for both devices.

Make sure you have enough Smoke Alarms in your home

Smoke alarms, like all electrical devices, have a lifespan. The average smoke alarm lasts about 10 years, but there are other factors that will shorten or extend the life of your smoke detector. If you have an old home with original wiring from the 1970s or 1980s, it's likely that some of your smoke detectors are older than that and need to be replaced.

Any time you see signs of wear on your existing smoke alarms (mushroom-like growth around the base of the device or discoloration to its cover), it's time to replace them with new ones.

How many? Most people need at least one in every bedroom and hallway in their home. Some people install them in kitchens just to be safe. You can never have enough to help keep your family safe.

Have a Fire Escape Plan

• As a homeowner, you should have a fire escape plan.
• Practice your plan with everyone in your household.
• Make sure everyone knows the plan and can get out of the house in case of an emergency. A good way to do this is to practice going through it once or twice a year or when there’s a change in people living in your home (e.g., a new baby).
• Have fire extinguishers throughout the home: one in the kitchen and one near each bedroom door; also have one outside near the furnace room or basement entrance.

Teach Children what to do in case of a Fire

The most important thing you can do is teach your kids what to do in case of a fire. Teach them to get out, stay out and call 9-1-1 from a safe place.

Teach them to stay low to the ground, crawl and avoid smoke. Remind them not to stop and play in the hallways. Show them what it looks like when smoke comes through an open door or window by blowing gently on a piece of paper until it smokes up.

Also teach your kids what a real fire alarm sounds like so they don't mistake it for their toy whistle or something else that makes noise.

Fire safety is important for everyone, but especially for children and the elderly. If you have elderly or children living in your home, ensure your smoke detectors are working properly. Keeping regular checks on your smoke alarms can help protect and keep your family safe.