Fire Safety
By Robin Shapiro
It’s a good idea to take inventory of your home’s fire safety preparedness to lower risks. Home inspectors from insurance companies, mortgage banks, or homebuyers routinely check on many of these things:
Do you have adequate smoke detectors? It’s best to install approved smoke alarms on every level of the house. These should be outside sleeping areas and inside bedrooms. Fire alarms should be tested every month and batteries should be replaced annually. Electrical circuits should not be overloaded. Cords should not be hidden under rugs or over nails. Worn electric cables should be replaced. Appliances which spark, smell, or sputter should be turned off and unplugged. Wires, kitchen towels, and gloves should be moved away from stovetops. Toasters should not be near curtains or flammable things. They should be unplugged when not used. Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned annually. Electric blankets should be replaced if they show any signs of excessive wear or damage. Fire extinguishers should be stored in an accessible spot.
This Monday, May 27 is Memorial Day and the traditional first day of summer. The real estate market tends to slow up a bit as people start to enjoy summer activities like our beaches which officially open this Saturday (with lifeguards on duty). Call me. Love, Robin.
