Fall Fire Safety Tips: How To Avoid a Property Claim
As the weather gets colder, you may find yourself spending more time indoors, cooking holiday meals, or cuddling up with some fall-scented candles. Embracing your cozy side is one the perks of fall and winter, but it’s important to stay mindful so that things like candles and space heaters don’t become hazardous.
Fires can be disastrous, and they’re more common in homes than you might realize. There were over 370,000 home fires in 2022. At Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee, we want you and your home to be protected all year long. This Fire Prevention Week, we’re sharing our top tips on staying fire-safe this fall.
Fall Fire Safety Tips
Test your smoke alarms once a month by pressing the test button. If your smoke alarms are more than 10 years old, replace them.
Always stay in the kitchen when you’re cooking to keep an eye on the delicious fall treats you’re making. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires.
Keep small children at least 3 feet away from heat sources like fireplaces, space heaters and ovens at all times. This prevents them from burning themselves or knocking something over and causing a fire.
Plug portable space heaters directly into an outlet. Never plug space heaters into extension cords.
Have you checked on your furnace lately? The National Fire Protection Association recommends having your furnace inspected once a year.
Keep lit candles away from anything flammable, like your cozy fall blankets or Halloween costumes.
Candles are great mood lighting for spooky stories, but make sure you have battery-powered light sources available in the event of a power outage. Don’t rely on candles for light.
While it’s important to do what we can to prevent risks and protect ourselves and our homes, accidents can still happen. If they do, Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee will be here for you. Reach out to your local agent to discuss your options for protection.
