In 2017 alone, United States fire departments responded to approximately 1.3 million fires, which resulted in $23 billion in property losses, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
One of the best ways to protect you and your loved ones from becoming a victim of a home fire is to take initiative to lower your risk. Simple steps—such as changing the batteries in your smoke detectors annually and doing monthly checks of the smoke detector system—lower the probability of injury by as much as 50%.
While fires are the most common, they are not the only risk factor homeowners should consider. Other risk management actions homeowners can take include·
- Installing carbon monoxide detectors
- Installing a burglar and fire alarm that signals the police and/or fire department
- Keeping doors and windows locked
- Turning off your water when you go on vacation
- Implementing a neighborhood watch program
- Having the proper fire extinguishers in the kitchen
- Wrapping pipes with proper insulation to prevent freezing
- Cleaning your chimney annually
- Keeping your home, especially the roof, well maintained.
