Essential Summer Fire Safety Tips for Your Home
The summer months are a time when friends and family get together to have fun and enjoy the lovely weather. However, it is also a time when fire can become an issue. As you enjoy summer activities, it is essential that you follow Chicago fire safety protocols. Below are a few examples of how summer fun can turn deadly due to fire. Take note and act accordingly so your family can stay safe this summer.
Grilling
In the summer months, grilling is a common occurrence. Many people grill more than one a week to enjoy a smokey taste of a hamburger or hot dog. When grilling, it is important to do so in a safe environment. Have a green space where you can set up a grill safely. If you live in a Chicago apartment, it is not wise to grill on your balcony area. This can cause a fire and lead to major damage and even death in the building in the event of an accident.
Be sure to wear short sleeve clothing when grilling to stay safe from the grill flames. You also want to maintain a three foot space away from the grill to avoid any fires from objects nearby. Never leave the grill unattended and be sure you have a fire extinguisher nearby to put out any fires that may occur.
Gas Storage
It is important to avoid storing any flammable materials in the home, such as gasoline, propane, liquid fire starter and other similar materials. The best place to store such materials is in a well-ventilated area outside. Never bring such chemicals inside the home and store new ignition sources, such as a gas stove. This is an accident waiting to happen and can result in major injury or death.
HVAC Review
Your HVAC system is essential during the summer months. Without proper cooling, you will burn up inside the home as the temperatures outside reach the 90s. The air conditioning system of your home needs to be inspected on a regular basis, particularly before summer arrives. This way, any issues can be taken care of and you have cool air during the hottest time of the year.
If your unit is not cleaned and maintained on a regular basis, it can become dirty and have repair issues. The dirt inside your unit can lead to an electrical fire, which can be damaging and dangerous inside your home. Be sure to have your system checked regularly so you do not have to worry about this issue.
Review Fire Extinguishers
The portable fire extinguishers in your home should be serviced regularly, and summer is a great time to knock out this task. Chicago fire safety protocols require that fire extinguishers be evaluated, serviced and tagged by a licensed technician on an annual basis to ensure they are operational. Schedule your fire extinguisher maintenance on an annualized, scheduled basis.
Review Smoke Detectors
The smoke detectors in your home should be reviewed during the hot summer months. Chicago fire safety protocols suggest that smoke detectors be tested on a regular basis to ensure they are functioning properly. Change out batteries as needed so that you can be alerted in the event of a fire.
These are just a few ways to stay safe this summer. Fire never takes time off, even when the temperatures are blazing. Be sure to follow all Chicago fire safety suggestions so you can stay safe year-round.