Apartment fires can be devastating. Not only is there loss of property, but potentially loss of life. There are a few simple steps you can take to decrease the risk of fire and increase the chances of safely escaping. Mitigating risk helps to prevent apartment fires, and everyone should take the time to protect their family. Effective Coverage, the nation’s leading renters insurance provider, offers these helpful tips to make sure you and your family are safe.
How Can I Prevent Apartment Fires?
When people have renters insurance, they’re often more aware of the risks involved in life. That often leads people to wonder how they can prevent apartment fires.
- Keep stove tops and counters clean and uncluttered of anything that might be a fire hazard. Don’t just set the box of spaghetti on the counter, put it away immediately because that cardboard box next to the stove is a fire waiting to happen.
- Make sure potholders are easily reachable from the stove so you can remove something quickly if it’s getting too hot. On the same token, always turn the handles of pots inwards so they can’t be bumped.
- Use extension cords safely, sparingly, and only within their ratings. Lamp extension cords should be used for lamps, and nothing else. If you must use extension cords for heavier appliances, use the appropriate type, size, and length. Extension cords should never be coiled over on themselves at any point while in use. Doing so creates excessive heat that the cord is not designed to handle.
- Portable space heaters should be avoided if possible. If absolutely necessary, ensure they are a safe distance (three feet) away from flammable objects and always turned off when you leave the room.
- Make sure there are smoke detectors (and ideally carbon monoxide detectors) on every floor and outside each and every sleeping area. Test them frequently, and replace the batteries twice a year when you set your clocks for daylight savings time. If your area doesn’t observe daylight savings time, change the batteries in April and October.
- Be sure exits and the path to those exits are kept clear of debris, toys, and anything else that might impede your ability to get out quickly.
- Know of at least two exits from your apartment that are accessible at all times. Each sleeping area should have a secondary exit plan such as a window to the extent possible. Choose a safe place in advance for your family to meet up after escaping a fire.
- Practice home fire drills.
- Keep your clothes dryer and exhaust clean and free of lint buildup.
- Always take recalled power cords and appliances seriously. Remove them from service immediately.
Some of these tips help prevent fires, while others help you stay safe if there is a fire. Remember that just because you’re safe doesn’t mean your neighbors won’t have an accidental fire. So, plan ahead. Effective Coverage, the renters insurance experts, hope you never need the escape tips, but if you do, use them and get out. Personal property can be replaced, that’s what you have renters insurance for. You are irreplaceable.