PuroClean of West Los Angeles 
Fires are a terrifying reality, and unfortunately, they happen more often than you might think. In 2018 alone, the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) reported over 499,000 structure fires in the United States. These devastating events resulted in tragic losses: 3,665 civilian deaths, 15,200 injuries, and over $11 billion in property damage.
Don’t Wait for Disaster to Strike: Your West LA Home Fire Safety Checklist
The best defense against a fire is a well-prepared home. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you and your family stay safe:
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms:
- Install: Place alarms outside every sleeping area and on every level, including the basement.
- Interconnect: Connect alarms so that when one sounds, they all do.
- Test Monthly: Push the test button each month.
- Change Batteries: Replace batteries twice a year (during Daylight Saving Time).
- Replace Alarms: Replace all alarms every 10 years (or sooner if they malfunction).
Fire Extinguishers:
- Know Their Location: Familiarize yourself and your family with the location of all extinguishers.
- Placement: Place extinguishers on every level of your home and near exits.
- Choose the Right Type: Select a multi-purpose extinguisher approved by an independent testing lab.
- Use Responsibly: Extinguishers are for small fires in confined spaces only.
Fire Escape Plan:
- Create and Practice: Develop two escape routes from each bedroom and designate a meeting spot outside.
- Emergency Contacts: Ensure everyone knows how to contact each other in an emergency.
- “Stop, Drop, and Roll”: Teach all family members this vital technique.
Kitchen Safety:
- Never Leave Cooking Unattended: Stay alert and sober while cooking.
- Turn Off Appliances: If you must leave the kitchen, turn off the stove or oven.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Avoid loose clothing and roll up your sleeves.
- Prevent Pet Fires: Remove stove knobs when not in use.
Smoking Safety:
- Smoke Outdoors: Never smoke in bed or when drowsy.
- Proper Ashtray Use: Use deep ashtrays and douse cigarette butts with water before disposal.
- Never Discard in Vegetation: Extinguish cigarettes completely and never discard them outdoors.
Candle Safety:
- Never Leave Unattended: Extinguish candles when leaving the room or going to bed.
- Safe Placement: Use sturdy holders on stable, heat-resistant surfaces.
- Ventilation: Burn candles in well-ventilated areas, but avoid drafts.
- Power Outages: Use flashlights instead of candles during power outages.
Child Safety:
- Keep Matches and Lighters Out of Reach: Store them securely in a locked drawer or cabinet.
- Supervise Children: Never use matches or lighters around children.
- Space Heater Safety: Supervise electric heaters and unplug them when leaving the room.
Fireplace Safety:
- Annual Chimney Inspection: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.
- Keep Flammables Away: Maintain a two-foot clearance around the fireplace.
- Use Dry, Seasoned Wood: Avoid using unseasoned or wet wood.
- Install a Fire Screen: Prevent embers from escaping.
- Never Leave Unattended: Extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the home.
Electrical Safety:
- Inspect Wiring: Have your home’s electrical wiring inspected regularly.
- Replace Damaged Cords: Replace frayed or damaged cords and wires.
- Avoid Overloading: Don’t overload extension cords or outlets.
- Install GFCIs and AFCIs: Install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) for added protection.
Garage Safety:
- Store Combustibles Safely: Store gasoline and other flammable liquids in approved containers outside the home.
- Keep Flammables Elevated: Store flammable items on high shelves away from heat sources.
- Avoid Flammable Materials: Avoid using carpets, rugs, or non-fire-retardant materials in the garage.
- Properly Dispose of Spills: Use sawdust or cat litter to absorb gasoline spills and dispose of them safely.
Don’t Wait: Act Now!
This checklist is a starting point. Take the time to review it with your family and make sure your home is as fire-safe as possible.
In Case of Fire Damage:
If your home suffers fire damage, contact your insurance agent immediately. For professional fire damage restoration and smoke remediation services, trust the experts at PuroClean of West LA. We’re here to help you get your life back to normal.
Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information and should not be considered professional fire safety advice. Always consult with local fire safety authorities for specific recommendations.
Contact PuroClean of West LA today for a free consultation.
Property damage caused by fire can be extremely traumatizing and seemingly insurmountable. In order to minimize the extent of the damage, fire damage to property needs to be dealt with immediately. PuroClean of West Los Angeles will determine the full extent of the damage to your residential or commercial property. We will then provide all the necessary fire damage restoration services, which include structural support and board-ups as needed. Our expert team will take extra care while packing your belongings and will work diligently to clean and deodorize your property.
PuroClean of West Los Angeles 