Stop, Drop, and Read

5 Fire Safety Tips for Your Home

It’s officially spooky season, which means it’s time to turn up the heat on fire safety. Fires, especially inside your home, can sneak up on you, so it’s important for your family to be prepared. From safety drills to cooking tips, here are five ways to keep your home safe and your family protected.  

5 Hot Tips for a Safe Home

• Don’t Skip Smoke Alarms: It’s important to install smoke alarms on all levels of your home. Remember to test them monthly and expect to replace the batteries every six months. 
• Plan Ahead: Especially if you have multiple levels and a big family, planning an escape plan helps the whole family stay prepared. Familiarizing your kids with the alarm sounds could also help reduce panic in the moment.  
• Get A Fire Extinguisher: Make sure you have at least one fire extinguisher in your home—one per floor is even better! Also, check their ABC rating so you can use them on any type of fire.  
• Pay Attention When Cooking: Leaving your cooking equipment unattended is a common cause of home fires. Make sure the cooking area is clear of flammable items and keep children away from these spaces.  
• Don’t Leave Candles Unattended: When lighting candles, use a sturdy base and keep them away from flammable objects. Always extinguish the candle before leaving and try to have flashlights on hand for emergency situations.   

Fire safety doesn’t have to be scary; planning and taking small steps can make a big difference. Start this month by following these five tips and keep your family safe and focused on their upcoming Halloween costumes.  

If you have any questions or are considering starting your homebuying journey, find a loan officer near you today!  

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The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.