Recent fires in a Bhubaneswar hospital and the Nariman Point all open up the Pandora’s box and raise the question of how to fight with these mishaps. Current statistics of deaths and injuries, in relation to fires proves to be alarming. In countries like the United Kingdom, an increasing number of people affected by losses and fatal injuries are being reported and accounted for each year. This is in line with smoking, faulty wiring as well as heating equipment as some of the possible causes of home fires occurring throughout the country. Given these rates and information, it is only fitting to know the importance of home fire prevention and tips.
First, invest in proper fire-fighting equipments like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. You may begin with installing smoke detectors on every level of your homes and bed rooms. Maintenance is also required; therefore detectors must be kept clean and dust-free. Make sure to replace batteries regularly. In the case of fire extinguishers, it is also essential to know these simple reminders. Fire extinguishers should be mounted in accessible places like workshops or kitchens. Learn how to use extinguishers properly. You also need to read instructions and make sure to follow it accordingly. Moreover, do not treat a fire extinguisher as a miracle worker as it is manufactured to douse small fires. It is still better to go out and seek assistance if situations become worse.
Remind yourself that fire safety entails proper planning. You need to be ahead of yourself. Preparing oneself means considering relevant details like importance of escape ladders and fire exits. Some household owners take these things lightly but little did they know how useful these matters could be. Besides, with so many stores selling easy-to-use ladders, access is never really a problem. Make sure that your windows can be easily opened from the inside, thus allowing you to escape using the opening as an alternative route. Keep house corridors and stairways free from obstructions. It is also advisable to keep track of unused supplies like newspapers as these are known combustibles. Clearing out unnecessary items in closets and garages are preventive measures too.
Another good tip on how to prevent home fires is through proper use of appliances and home equipment. Space heaters are useful items but can be a cause of concern if not properly installed. Any type of heating equipment must be maintained and subjected to regular inspection. Fire safety also entails the appropriate use of other tools like extension cords. It is also important that electric appliances are plugged in separate outlets more so placing space heaters away from magazines or old newspapers. The kitchen is one place where residents tend to play safe. Unfortunately, it is also the same area where home fires usually begin. Therefore, creating that ambience of safety is crucial for any home owner. You can start by placing a fire extinguisher in your kitchen. You can also try checking for possible frayed wires or loaded electrical outlets. Generally, fire prevention and its success lies in one’s ability to determine possible causes and setting out full-proof plans in order to counteract each. Fighting fire is of great importance in high rise buildings.
(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)
