Home for the Holidays: Keeping Your Home Safe from Fire

11/25/2023 (Permalink)

The aftermath of interior fire damage

The holiday season is a time of warmth, joy, and cherished traditions. It's also a season when fire risks can increase due to decorative lighting, cooking, and the use of heating sources. At SERVPRO, we're committed to helping you keep your home safe during this special time of year. In this blog post, we'll share valuable tips to prevent fires and steps to take if you ever find yourself the victim of a fire.

Preventing Holiday Fires:

1. Careful Decoration:

• Inspect Lights: Before decorating, carefully inspect holiday lights and extension cords for damage or frayed wires. Replace any damaged items.
• Safe Placement: Ensure that lights, ornaments, and decorations are placed away from heat sources, such as candles, fireplaces, and heaters.
• Candle Safety: Use flameless LED candles as a safer alternative to traditional candles, and never leave lit candles unattended.

2. Safe Cooking Practices:

• Stay in the Kitchen: When cooking, stay in the kitchen to monitor food on the stove or in the oven. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires.
• Keep Flammable Items Away: Keep kitchen towels, oven mitts, and other flammable items away from stovetops and ovens.
• Timers and Alarms: Use timers to remind you when dishes are done, and ensure your home has working smoke alarms installed.

3. Fireplace and Heating Safety:

• Fireplace Safety: Use a screen or glass door to contain sparks and embers. Ensure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed.
• Space Heater Precautions: Place space heaters on stable surfaces and away from flammable materials. Ensure they have safety features like tip-over switches and automatic shut-offs.

4. Electrical Precautions:

• Avoid Overloading Outlets: Do not overload electrical outlets or power strips with too many decorations or devices.
• Turn Off Decorations: Turn off decorative lights and unplug them when you go to bed or leave your home.

5. Outdoor Decorations:

• Use Outdoor-Rated Equipment: Ensure that outdoor decorations, extension cords, and lights are specifically rated for outdoor use.
• Prevent Tripping Hazards: Keep outdoor decorations and extension cords clear of walkways to prevent tripping hazards.

What to Do If You're a Victim of a Fire:

If, despite all precautions, a fire occurs in your home, here are the immediate steps to take:

1. Ensure Safety:

• Evacuate your home immediately and ensure the safety of all family members and pets.

2. Call 911:

• Dial 911 to report the fire and request emergency assistance.

3. Do Not Reenter:

• Do not reenter your home until it has been declared safe by firefighters.

4. Contact SERVPRO:

• After ensuring your safety, contact SERVPRO for professional fire damage restoration and cleanup services. Our expert technicians will assess the damage, provide immediate cleanup, and initiate the restoration process.

5. Document the Damage:

• Document the damage for insurance purposes by taking photos and making a detailed list of damaged items.

6. Inform Loved Ones:

• Notify family members and loved ones about the fire and your safety.

7. Seek Support:

• Reach out to local disaster relief organizations or support groups for assistance and guidance during the recovery process.

At SERVPRO, we understand the devastation that fires can cause, especially during the holiday season. Our experienced technicians are here to support you in the aftermath of a fire, restoring your home and belongings to their pre-fire condition. Remember, your safety is paramount, and we're here to assist you every step of the way. We wish you a safe and joyful holiday season, free from the worry of fire hazards.