Long Island is an exciting and beautiful place in winter. Unfortunately, winter is also the season when most home fires occur. Tragically, more than 2,500 people die each year in home fires, most of which could have been prevented. Sixty-five percent of those deaths occur in homes that do not have working smoke alarms. Installing a security system with alarm system monitoring on Long Island can make all the difference to your family’s health and safety.
Protecting your family from the tragedy of home fires includes recognizing fire hazards in your home and formulating an escape plan. Here are some common fire hazards you should be aware of:
- Smoking – Smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths. Make a pledge not to smoke in your home, and to make sure all smoking materials are fully extinguished.
- Cooking – Cooking fires are the number one cause of all home fires and injuries from home fires. Never leave anything unattended on the stove and keep kitchen towels, potholders and any other flammable material away from the stove.
- Candles – An unattended candle is dangerous. Also, if you light candles, be sure they are on a flat surface and well away from curtains, upholstery and other flammable materials.
- Holiday Trees – Between 2006 and 2010 there were 230 home fires caused by Christmas trees and holiday lights. If you have a real tree, check it daily and water to keep it from becoming too dry. Examine all holiday lights to make sure there are no cuts or shorts that could cause a fire.
Besides prevention, the most important precaution you can take to protect your family is a monitored alarm system. When your alarm system detects the smoke from a fire, every member of your family should know at least two routes of escape and have a meeting place arranged so that you can be sure everyone got out safely. With alarm monitoring on Long Island, emergency services can be dispatched as soon as a crisis arises.
