Living
Fire prevention tips for local homeowners
Friday, 15 June 2012 by Keith Bahlmann
Safety is important all the time, but each year the National Safety Council designates June as National Safety Month to help focus the public's attention on critical safety issues. In support of this national awareness event, Greg Owens, Owner of SERVPRO® of Temple and Belton in Temple, reminds local homeowners to review all of the safety tips from the National Safety Council, including tips on preventing home fires.
"While most homeowners take at least the basic steps to protect against a fire" said Owens, "there are fire sources in homes that are frequently overlooked. For National Safety Month, we want to shine a spotlight on some of the causes of home fires associated with the coming summer season."
Clothes Dryers
Help prevent dryer fires by:
1. Controlling lint buildup – on the lint filter, the back of the machine and in the venting system.
2. Replacing plastic or vinyl vent hoses with a rigid or flexible metal venting system.
Fire Pits
In their Seasonal Safety Tips, Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) recommends that homeowners keep the glow confined by:
1. Keeping these fireplaces at least 10 feet from any structure or flammable items.
2. Placing the unit on a solid surface, in an open area, away from overhanging trees or rooflines.
Gas Grills
As summer grilling season heats up, SERVPRO® recommends that outdoor chefs keep these tips from UL in mind:
1. Position the grill outside, at a safe distance from the house. Never grill inside a garage or enclosed porch or under a breezeway, awning, carport or overhang that might catch fire.
2. Check the grill's propane hoses for cracks and brittleness then trickle soapy water over the hoses and fittings. Look for bubbles that would indicate a propane leak, and address the problem before using the grill again.
3. Never light a gas grill with the lid closed.
For more information on severe storms or other emergency situations, visit the FEMA website at www.ready.gov.
