October is fire prevention month and the American Red Cross of Southwestern New York wants you to take precautions in your home. Install smoke alarms in your home if you have not done so already. They are widely available and fairly inexpensive. Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.
Do not overload circuits or extension cords. Avoid high traffic areas to prevent tripping and possible sparks catching something on fire. Never place cords under rugs. Check electrical connection by checking the fit of the plug in the outlet. If the plug is loose, inspect the outlet to find out why. A poor connection can cause overheating and could start a fire within minutes. Unplug all appliances when not use.
When arranging a home, place appliances carefully. Try to keep TVs, kitchen and other appliances away from windows with curtains. If there is a wiring problem, curtains can spread a fire quickly. Also, keep appliances away from water sources –like rain coming in from windows or near a sink. This can help prevent wiring damage which can lead to a fire.
Finally, conduct regular home inspections. Check all outlets and equipment plugged in. Taking time to check the wiring at least once a month could save you from a fire in your home. For more fire prevention tips visit www.redcross.org/swny. The American Red Cross of Southwestern NY is a United Way agency.
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