Spring Ahead Into Safety

The days will soon be growing longer as we “spring ahead” and our goals to clean out the old and welcome in the new will consume our free time. As we settle in to the changes brought by Daylight Savings, we are reminded that while we may have lost an hour of sleep, we need to be proactive towards the safety precautions in our home.

The National Safety Council (NSC) states that the “turn of spring” marks a time where families can take action on home safety. The NSC is reminding families that while they may be preoccupied with spring cleaning, they need to add a few safety measures to their list.

Smoke Alarms

• There should be a smoke alarm located in every bedroom and common area of your home. Every level of a home should have a smoke detector as well. The smoke detector should be at least 10 feet from the stove to reduce false alarms. Smoke alarms should also be away from windows, doors and ducts.

• The National Fire and Protection Agency found that 3 out of every 5 deaths in home fires are due to homes not being equipped with smoke alarms.

Carbon Monoxide

• Known as “The Silent Killer” because it is invisible, odorless and can be deadly – a carbon monoxide detector should be fully operating in every home.

• Anything in a home that burns fuel can be a source of carbon monoxide.

• Carbon Monoxide detectors should be placed in central locations of the home and on every level.

• Carbon Monoxide detectors should have functional batteries and should be tested regularly.

• During your spring sweep, make sure that all vents for gas appliances are clear of debris and snow or ice.

Family Emergency Plan

• It may sound silly and absurd, but many families need an emergency plan in place.

• Communicate to each member of your family about where to go or what do in the event of a fire, tornado, flood or contamination.

• Over the years, thousands of lives could’ve been saved if families had an emergency plan in place.

• Have an updated first aid kit.

• Have an updated contact list of emergency responders, doctors, relatives and neighbors.

Check Cabinets

• Get rid of unused prescription drugs! Pill bottles have been deserted in cabinets all over the country just waiting for little ones to get their hands on them. If a prescription was not finished or a medication has expired, the pills should to be taken to a prescription drop box.

We encourage you and your family to take precautionary measures this spring. Accidental deaths are often ones that can be prevented. Take the time to plan, check, look and test items in and around your home.

Have more questions?  Contact Kaine Law today.