Essential tips to protect your home from fire hazards while vacationing

Now that spring is upon us, vacationers will soon start leaving their homes to enjoy long-awaited trips. Before you journey out to your dream destination, it’s important to ensure your home is safe from possible fire hazards. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1.37 million home fires in 2021 alone. These fires caused a staggering 3,393 civilian deaths, 10,500 injuries, and a hefty $14.8 billion in property damage.

By implementing a few preventative measures, you can ensure peace of mind and enjoy your vacations to the fullest, knowing that your home is safe and sound.

1. Ensure they are in working order. The USFA emphasizes the importance of testing with a smoke detector tester, not just the hush button, to ensure proper functionality. Replace any expired batteries (typically every year) or malfunctioning units. Learn more about proper maintenance from our FAQ on fire damage.
   1. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Ensure they are in working order. The USFA emphasizes the importance of testing with a smoke detector tester, not just the hush button, to ensure proper functionality. Replace any expired batteries (typically every year) or malfunctioning units. Learn more about proper maintenance from our FAQ on fire damage.

1. 1. Have the outsides of your home landscaped to get rid of leaves and risky tree branches. Clear leaves, dead vegetation, and risky tree branches minimizes potential fuel sources for fires. If ignited, the flames will quickly spread to your home. Regular maintenance of landscaping helps create a a defensible space around your home,reducing the likelihood of fire damage. Discover tips on creating a fire-resistant landscape in our blog.

1. 1. Unplug unessential appliances to help prevent an electrical fire following a power surge. Electrical fires are a leading cause of house fires. To prevent an electrical fire, unplug unessential electronics like coffee makers, televisions, and lamps from power sockets. For essential appliances left plugged in, use surge protectors to guard against power surges. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI)recommends plugging only one cord per outlet of a surge protector for optimal safety.

1. 1. Store combustibles in proper containers and keep away from flammable objects. Combustibles such as gasoline and propane should always be safely sealed in their proper containers. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. Adhering to these guidelines ensures safe handling and storage practices, mitigating the potential for fire outbreaks.
   2. Check the weather forecast. Stay informed about upcoming weather conditions to address any fire-related risks and protect your home from volatile weather during your vacation. The American Red Cross provides comprehensive guidelines on preparing for emergencies, including wildfires, emphasizing the importance of staying informed about weather patterns.

1. 1. Ensure all doors and windows are closed to help prevent blazes.This helps contain a fire in one area and prevent it from spreading. The American Red Cross emphasizes this practice in their fire prevention guidelines.

1. 1. Ask a trusted neighbor to check on your home.Notify them of your vacation plans so they can check up on your home. You’ll have an additional watchful eyes on your property that will promptly report any suspicious activity or emergencies.

1. 1. Notify your security company of your absence (if applicable).If your home is equipped with a security system, informing the security company of your vacation absence is advisable. This proactive measure ensures that the security company remains vigilant and responsive to any alerts or incidents that may occur in your absence.