[caption class="snax-figure" align="aligncenter" width="1140"][/caption]
Halloween is one of the most anticipated holidays of the year for kids, but it has also become a holiday which can lead to a huge number of home fires. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that Halloween decorations were the first materials to be ignited in approximately 860 reported Halloween home fires between 2009 to 2013, resulting to direct property damage of 13 million dollars in average per year. Restoration and repair works are often costly, which is why it is important to take the necessary precautions to prevent fires this Halloween. ServiceMaster by Reed has some tips to keep your family and your home safe
Safety Tips for Halloween Decorations
To prevent fires from decorations this Halloween, follow these tips.
When using pumpkins or jack-o'-lanterns as Halloween features, use LED light, a battery-operated candle or a glow stick for illumination. Using lit candles is a fire hazard, as pumpkins may accidentally tip over and ignite surrounding items and materials.
Using lit candles to decorate windowsills or porch stairs helps create a spooky effect, but open flames are a fire hazard and can cause injuries. Use battery-operated candles to create the same eerie ambience.
Flammable materials such as dried flowers, straw, hay bales, and cornstalks must be kept away from any heat source, such as candles, fireplaces, outdoor fire pits and wood-burning stoves.
Check decorative bulbs for damages and immediately replace those that have burnt out.
Electrical cords must be removed from places where they can be a tripping hazard. Make sure that the extension cords you use outdoors are also rated for outdoor use. Avoid overloading extension cords.
Avoid putting decorations and other obstructions on escape routes and exits.
Check your smoke alarms and replace batteries as necessary.
Keeping Your Yard Safe
Trick-or-treaters are likely to flock your yard this Halloween. In order to keep them safe, perform the following:
Clear your yard of debris such as fallen leaves, twigs or sticks to prevent tripping or falling.
Inspect exterior lights to see if they are working properly.
Secure steps and railings.
No matter how careful homeowners can be, however, accidents can still happen. If a fire breaks out in your home this Halloween, it’s best to call a professional fire damage restoration company to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.
Call Us for Fire Damage Restoration in Dothan, Alabama
ServiceMaster by Reed is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to immediately respond to fire damage emergencies, smoke and soot removal and odor removal services. Call us at (334) 500-3365 or schedule an appointment online today.
Alabama
Georgia
Sign in to leave a comment.