Colder weather and earlier sunsets mean that people are more likely to congregate in their homes. Holiday parties, family visits and just regular snow days bring a lot of joy and laughter this colder season. Winter can also increase the likeliness of specific hazards to your home and loved ones. Fire risks, carbon monoxide and even frozen pipes bursting can be destructive and dangerous. Whether you are gathering in your home or leaving your home empty while traveling to see family, don’t let these hazards catch you off guard.
Fire Risk
With heaters running, fireplaces burning and other threats more likely to cause a fire in the winter, it’s important to have proper smoke/fire detectors in your home. The National Fire Protection Association recommends installing detectors on every level of your home, including bedrooms, hallways and garages. Make sure placement is away from drafts and windows and always make sure they are in good working order. Additionally, stock your home with multiple, easy to grab fire extinguishers. Teach family members how to locate and use it properly. Finally, plan. With family members and pets in the home, the chaos of a fire is the last place to formulate a plan. Create an evacuation plan and practice it with your family. This will give them a sense of calm and purpose in the unlikely event a fire starts in your home while you are there.
Carbon Monoxide Risk
Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that can spread in your home without anyone realizing until it’s too late. The risk increases in the winter due to generator and heater use. Place CO alarms in a central location on each floor of the home and outside every bedroom or sleeping area. Where fire and smoke can be an indicator, carbon monoxide has no indicators and the only way to know if you have it in your home is through the alarm of a CO sensor. Additionally, make sure your appliances are properly installed and vent to the outside as a prevention strategy.
Leak Risk
Nearly everyone has heard of a water leak horror story. Homeowners are away and a pipe bursts. No one knows until they get back to town and have to pick through the destruction left in their home. Having leak protection monitoring will give you back that precious time, which is of the essence when dealing with water. With the temperatures dropping, pipes can freeze and burst. Take some time to winterize your pipes and outside spigots. Install smart water and explosive gas leak detectors to notify you immediately if there is a leak in your home.
There is nothing better than the peace of mind knowing your family is protected from winter hazards. Take the time to assess your home and install or check that you will be properly and swiftly notified in the event your home is hit with a winter hazard.