According to Ready.gov. 2,500 people die each year in home fires. Did you know that most home fires occur in the kitchen while cooking, and are the leading cause of injuries from fire? You homeowner’s or renter’s insurance will cover damage due a fire (check policy for actual terms and conditions).
Here are some effective ways to prevent home fires.
1. Have a working smoke alarm in each bedroom. Half of home fire deaths happen between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.
2. If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL for help.
3. If you are cooking, do not leave the kitchen while you have something on the stove. Fires can spread quickly.
4. Never smoke in bed.
5. Inspect extension cords for frayed or exposed wires or loose plugs.
6. Always have a pre-determined exit plan and include your children in practicing the plan.
7. Keep pets away from the stove and counter tops.
8. Keep children three feet away from anything hot; space heaters and stove-tops can cause serious burns.
9. Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
10. Never play with lighters or matches when you are with your children; they may try to imitate you.
What is Homeowners insurance?
Homeowners insurance provides financial protection against disasters. A standard policy insures the home itself and the things you keep in it.
Homeowners insurance is a package policy. This means that it covers both damage to your property and your liability or legal responsibility for any injuries and property damage you or members of your family cause to other people. This includes damage caused by household pets.
Damage caused by most disasters is covered but there are exceptions. The most significant are damage caused by floods, earthquakes and poor maintenance. You must buy two separate policies for flood and earthquake coverage. Maintenance-related problems are the homeowners' responsibility.