Your home is your sanctuary, and you want to keep it safe for yourself and your loved ones. But with so many potential hazards lurking inside and out, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s where this annual home safety checklist comes in.
This checklist covers everything you need to do to prevent fires, mold, injuries, and more. From checking your smoke detectors to cleaning your gutters, you’ll find all the essential tips in one place.
By following these simple steps, you can create a safe and healthy home for everyone.
12 Tips to Prevent Fires, Mold, Injuries, and More
FIRE
1. FIRE EXTINGUISHER
- Check that the dial is “green” or “full.”
- Keep one in the kitchen, garage, and on every floor.
2. SMOKE DETECTOR
- Test alarm and vacuum the grilles.
- Change batteries twice a year.
3. CHIMNEY AND FIREPLACE
- If you use your chimney or fireplace often or burn more than half a cord of wood per year, get it professionally cleaned.
4. FURNACE AND AC
- Change your filter regularly.
- Get professional preventative maintenance annually.
5. CLOTHES DRYER
- High laundry use? Get it professionally cleaned every year to avoid a fire started by the 25% of the lint generated that the lint can screens miss.
Lint screens can miss up to 25% of the lint generated.
6. ELECTRICAL
- Notice heat from switches, or sparking, humming or a strange burnt smell around the outlet? Get it inspected ASAP.
Surge protectors should be replaced every two years.
MOLD AND CONTAINMENTS
7. ATTIC
Improper ventilation can lead to mold, rot, and even sagging roofs.
- Look for leaks or signs of rodents, insects or birds.
- Check soffit vents for damage/blockage.
- Make sure the bathroom fan isn’t venting into the attic.
8. CRAWLSPACE
During rainy weather, check for:
- Check for standing water.
- Evidence of insects or rodents.
9. GUTTERS
- Check for clogs from needles and leaves.
10. SUMP PUMP
- Check that the sump pit is free of debris.
- Make sure the pump is powered up and working properly.
INJURIES
11. TREES
Prevent damage to homes or cars during a windstorm.
- Look for signs of disease or insect damage.
12. TRIP HAZARDS
- Check concrete walkways for pushed-up tree roots.
- Mark the bottom of stairs with paint to help visitors visibly see where they are going to prevent someone from tripping.
Did you know that you could be liable if a visitor falls and hurts themselves on outside stairs on your property?
By following the tips in this annual home safety checklist, you can create a safe and healthy home for yourself and your loved ones. Remember to:
- Check your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers regularly.
- Clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent flooding.
- Inspect your roof and siding for damage.
- Trim trees and shrubs to prevent them from falling on your home.
- Take steps to prevent mold growth and other contaminants.
- Clear trip hazards from walkways and stairs.
By taking these simple precautions, you can help to keep your home safe and secure all year long.
Should you have any questions regarding your current coverage or want further information on these points, Basin Pacific Insurance is here for you. Contact us today at [email protected] and your agent will be in touch shortly.
For more information on the types of personal lines coverage offered by Basin Pacific Insurance, click here.
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