Fire Prevention Week: Tips to Protect Your Home and Workplace

Every year, thousands of fires result in devastating losses to homes and businesses. Fire Prevention Week serves as a reminder that small steps taken today can help prevent disasters tomorrow. Whether you’re protecting your family at home or your team at work, these tips can help keep people safe and properties protected.

Fire Safety at Home

Your home should always be your safest place. Simple habits make a huge difference:

• Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
• Place smoke alarms inside bedrooms, hallways, and on every level of your home.
• Create and practice a family escape plan with exit routes from every room.

The kitchen is another area where fires often start. Never leave food cooking unattended, and keep flammable items, such as towels, oven mitts, or paper, away from the stove. As the colder months approach, use space heaters with caution, keeping them at least three feet away from anything that can burn.

Taking a few moments to check cords, outlets, and extension use can also go a long way. Overloaded circuits or worn wiring are leading causes of household fires that are easy to overlook.

Fire Safety at Work

Workplaces require clear planning and proactive safety measures. Here are a few essentials every business should prioritize:

• Fire extinguishers should be readily accessible, inspected regularly, and employees should receive training on their use.
• Alarm and sprinkler systems need regular professional maintenance.
• Conduct regular fire drills to help employees respond calmly and quickly in the event of an emergency.
• Ensure that pathways and exits are kept clear of clutter.

Training staff on your fire prevention and evacuation plan is one of the most effective ways to reduce risk.

Insurance: Your Safety Net

Even the best prevention measures can’t eliminate fire risks entirely. That’s why insurance is a vital part of protecting both homes and businesses.

For homeowners and renters, insurance can replace lost or damaged belongings and cover damage to living spaces. Businesses can benefit from commercial property insurance and business interruption coverage, which help replace income if operations are disrupted. Having the proper protection ensures recovery doesn’t stall when the unexpected happens.

Partner with Ansay & Associates

This Fire Prevention Week, take time to review not just your safety practices, but also your insurance coverage. Our advisors can help ensure you’re fully protected at home and at work, with policies designed to fit your unique needs.

Talk to an advisor today!