Fire Safety for Milwaukee Homeowners

In honor of October being Fire Safety Month, we find it only fitting that we share some Milwaukee fire prevention tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Electrical Safety in your Waukesha Home

• Don't run electrical cords under rugs. The insulation can rub away and set the rug on fire
• Frayed or cracked electrical cords should be replaced
• Always plug unused electrical outlets with plastic safety caps
• Never overload outlets or extension cords.

Bathroom Safety in your Waukesha Home

• Water and appliances don't mix. Keep all appliances away from running water, a sink or bathtub filled with water, and always be sure to unplug them after you're done
• Check that your bathroom outlets have a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter). A GFCI will turn off the electrical current when it senses water, protecting you from electrocution. These are easily installed by a licensed electrician at Milwaukee Handyman!
• If using a radio in the shower, make sure it is one manufactured for use around the shower. Examine it carefully before purchasing to ensure it is safe to use.

Smoke Detectors - An Important Part of Waukesha Fire Safety

• Test your each smoke detector monthly to ensure it is still working properly
• Change your smoke detector batteries twice a year. A good rule of thumb is to change your batteries when you change your clocks
• An alternative is to wire your smoke detectors directly into the house's electrical system. This allows for all detectors to sound when only one has recognized smoke. It also eliminates the need to replace batteries twice a year
• Smoke detectors over 10 years old should be replaced
• Make sure every level of your house has a smoke detector. The one on the main floor should be far away enough from the kitchen to avoid false alarms from your cooking adventures
• For additional safety measures, install smoke detectors that also have emergency lights plus sound. This may be helpful for the hard of hearing and will help light your way when trying to get out in an emergency.

Miscellaneous Fire Safety Tips to Keep You Safe in your Waukesha Home

• Change your furnace filters on a regular basis
  (check your owner's manual for recommended frequency)
• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned on a regular basis to avoid chimney fires
• Always use the correct wattage light bulb when replacing burned out lights. Using a wattage higher than the socket is made for can cause a fire
• Make sure any portable space heaters are at least 3 feet away from anything flammable.

Following these safety tips will help keep you, your family, and your home more protected from sudden fires. Your friendly licensed electricians at Milwaukee Handyman can help keep your Milwaukee home up-to-date with the most current fire prevention maintenance.