Keep yourself and your family safe as the seasons change.
As we leave summer behind and leaves start to fall from the trees, it is important to remember a few fall safety tips. With proper precautions and safety awareness, your family can enjoy the crisp autumn weather while avoiding some of the serious dangers that come with the season.
Fire Safety
When the weather gets cooler, most people spend more time indoors using fireplaces, furnaces, and heaters to keep warm. Although nothing is quite as cozy as sitting by the fire, they can present many safety hazards. Keep these tips in mind.
Service Your Furnace
Have your furnace inspected by your heating and cooling company before the season starts. They will check for leaks and make sure that your furnace is in good working condition.
Be Careful Using Your Fireplace
Keep that fire in its proper place by using a fireplace screen to keep sparks from flying out of the fireplace. Never leave a burning fire unattended and make sure a fire in a fireplace is completely out before going to bed.
Use Caution With Space Heaters
Space heaters are an affordable way to take the chill out of the air. Just make sure that you read the heater’s instructions before use. Also, make sure that the space heater is vented properly, if necessary. Last, make sure that you allow at least three feet of empty space around the heater.
Reconsider Leaf Burning
Did you know that burning leaves contain dangerous, cancer-causing chemicals? That’s why leaves should never be disposed of in such a manner. If you must burn leaves, make sure to wear a protective mask. Never burn leaves on a windy day, as this can become a fire hazard. Last, make certain you burn them far away from your home or other structures.
Exercise Candle Safety
Candles are a critical part of the fall season, but they can be a fire hazard. According to the National Candle Association, 10,000 home fires begin with improper candle use. Never leave them burning if you leave or go to sleep and keep your candles away from kids and furry friends.
Replace Smoke Alarm Batteries
At Daylight Saving Time, change the batteries in your fire and carbon monoxide detectors. Test the detectors with the new batteries to make certain that they’re working correctly. Also, check and replace any expired home fire extinguishers.
Home Maintenance Safety Tips
Fall is the time for yard clean-ups and getting your home ready for the cold winter ahead. Keep these safety tips in mind as you work.
Look Up Before Pruning Trees
Survey the area before you start trimming your trees. Make certain that you know where power lines are before you set up your ladder.
Use Caution on Ladders
Your ladder should be placed on a flat, level surface before use. Also make sure to wear appropriate footwear, as ladders may be wet and prone to causing slips.
Clean Up Fallen Leaves
Clear all sidewalks and driveways of falling leaves. Wet leaves make for a slippery pedestrian hazard. Once snow starts to fall, the mix of dead leaves and snow makes an even greater risk for falling.
By keeping these important fall safety tips in mind, you can be sure you are doing everything you can to protect yourself and your family from seasonal dangers. This will leave your mind free to enjoy the beauty of this glorious season. Does your home need a little help to prepare it for the cooler months? Give HomeWise Roofing & Exteriors a call for all your exterior needs.
