How can you protect your house from fires?
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When people worry about fires they often think about how to prevent fires from starting inside their homes. However, in some areas, the risk of a fire starting outside and spreading to your home is just as great. That’s why you need to know how to protect your house from fires, regardless of where they start.
Of course, having several fire extinguishers at home can help you deal with the issue of having a fire. However, fires can quickly grow and you should never put your life at risk, extinguishers may simply not be enough. You must know when it is time to admit defeat and save your own life, as well as anyone else within your home.
Top Tip: If you live in an area that is likely to have fires you may want to keep a box of important documents somewhere else, this will be of great benefit if anything does happen to your home.
Follow these steps to help protect your home from fires. (1)
Clear The Area
Dry grass and other debris can light easily, whether from an existing fire or a carelessly discarded cigarette butt. Once the grass has caught it will start to encircle your home, potentially stopping you from leaving.
By making sure there is no grass next to your home and removing all debris you’ll be reducing the ability for a fire to start or spread.
Fire shutters
You can purchase fire shutters that go on the windows of your home or even inside your home between rooms. These will help to protect your windows from succumbing to the fire. They will also help to reduce smoke ingress, helping you to breathe properly for longer, and plan your escape.
Don’t forget, in a smoke-filled house you’ll need to stay low to the ground to minimize what you’re breathing in.
Fire-Resistant Materials
Debris is not the only thing that can make a fire worse or increase the likelihood of your house going up in flames. The material which your house is made from or clad in may also be flammable. Take a look at the outside of your home to see if you have combustible material. If you do, then it’s time to treat it or clad it with fire-resistant coverings. This will greatly reduce the likelihood of a fire.
Keep A Shovel Handy
If you have a fire outside your home the most effective way of putting it out is actually to smother it with soil or sand. Get a shovel and keep it somewhere that you’ll be able to get it quickly and easily if needed. You can then attempt to protect your house by shoveling soil onto the fire.
A fire extinguisher or two can also be useful!
Be Vigilant
It’s easy to take steps to protect your house and then forget about it. However, this is actually one of the worst things you can do. It’s important to visually inspect your home on a regular basis. This will ensure you pick up on any risks and can address them before a fire starts. (2)
