Having a house is a lot of work but some chores are worth doing for your family’s safety.
Here are 6 simple tasks you should perform on a regular basis.
1. Inspect your fire extinguishers and smoke alarms
A few times a year check the gauges on your fire extinguishers to make sure they show sufficient pressure and that there are no visible signs of wear and tear. Make sure the extinguishers are easily accessible and not blocked by any household items. Change the batteries on your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors every six months, whether or not they are chirping.
2. Clean the exhaust duct on your dryer
Once per year vacuum out the duct from your dryer to remove any debris. This will lower the risk of fire. If you have a plastic duct, you should replace it with one made of metal, which will further cut down the risk of fire.
3. Clean your chimney
You should have your chimney professionally inspected and if needed, cleaned, once every year. This will prevent the buildup of creosote, a flammable byproduct of burning wood. Creosote buildup increases the risk of fire and the possibility of introducing carbon monoxide into your home.
4. Test your garage door opener
You should check your garage door opener every so often to make sure it is still working properly and will reverse if an obstruction hits the sensor. Like any electronics, the sensor can become faulty, which can be dangerous.
5. Clean any mold
Most molds are not that dangerous but certain types can be a health hazard. The Center for Disease Control recommends that all mold be removed from your home. If the amount of mold is small this is a job you can accomplish without a professional. In most cases you simply need to scrub the affected area with a mixture of bleach and water.
6. Check for damaged wires
Every few months, conduct a visual inspection of all wires and cords in your home. Looks for any that are frayed or damaged. Replace cords and bring in an electrician to replace any wires that are part of your electrical system.
By following these simple tips you’ll make your home a safer place. It’s important to have thorough home insurance in place too. Contact the experts at John B Wright to make sure you have the best coverage.
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