Fire Safety

Because fire has the potential to destroy a home in minutes, it is one of the greatest threats to you and your family. Although kitchen fires are the leading cause of injuries, most are extinguished right away
and generally only cause minor damage. However, other residential fires are not so benign, such as
those caused by a carelessly discarded cigarette, fireplace sparks, or heaters. These types of fires can smolder undetected for long periods of time before exploding into flames.

To minimize your risk, you must be quickly aware of a fire and respond immediately. Fire produces poisonous gases that can quickly spread and claim sleeping victims. Most fatalities are from smoke and toxic gases, not burns. Even those who awaken may not get out in time because exposure to the gases confuses thinking and slows reactions. This is why it is so vital for you to have immediate and adequate warning.

Did You Know?

Most homeowner's policies offer a discount if you have burglar or fire alarm protection with monitoring. Ask your agent how much you can save!

Here are some helpful tips to prevent fires and keep your family and home safe.

Fire Prevention Inside

• Install smoke detectors throughout your home and in each bedroom.
• Check the batteries and test your smoke alarm monthly.
• Invest in fire alarm monitoring service from a UL Listed provider.
• Create an emergency exit plan with a safe meeting place. Plan a primary and alternative escape route from each room in your house.
• Regularly practice your escape routes with the entire family to make sure everyone is familiar with the procedure for safely exiting the house
  in an emergency.
• Do not overload electrical sockets. Unplug items when they are not in use.
• Clean furnaces and heating systems each year.

Fire Prevention Outside

• Cover your chimney with a half-inch mesh arrestor to prevent sparks from escaping and accidentally igniting nearby vegetation.
• Trim tree limbs so that none are within 10 feet of your chimney. Cut off dead limbs that overhang your home.
• Keep rain gutters clear of dried leaves or pine needles.
• Buy fire-resistant materials when repairing or renovating your roof.
• Store firewood and other combustible materials away from your home.
• Clear away dead vegetation and use fire-resistant plants.
• To make sure firefighters can find your house, post your address prominently.

Medical Alert Services

While most seniors prefer the freedom and independence of being in their own home, living alone poses challenges as we age. Even the most active and vital person can have an accident and need help. But what if you can’t reach the telephone to contact a neighbor or call 911?  Don’t wait until you have an emergency to secure your personal safety. Medical alert response systems are simple, affordable, and unobtrusive. It’s a small price for peace of mind.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

Carbon Monoxide is a potentially deadly, yet nearly invisible threat. If you use gas logs, a hot tub, gas appliances or have an attached garage, you may be at risk for exposure to carbon monoxide. This invisible and odorless gas causes flu-like symptoms, including fatigue, nausea, headache, and dizziness. More than 200 Americans die from carbon monoxide poisoning each year and another 5,000 need hospital treatment. Especially vulnerable are very young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with heart and respiratory problems.

Follow these tips to safeguard your family and home from this harmful gas.

• Make sure all appliances are properly vented to the outside and keep fresh air circulating in your home.
• Periodically check your heating system, kitchen range, fireplaces and water heater for carbon monoxide emissions.
• If you use a wood-burning fireplace, clean and inspect the chimney every year.
• Slightly open a window or door to allow adequate air circulation, and keep the damper open until the fire is completely out.
• Never idle your car engine for more than a few moments in the garage or other enclosed area, even if the door is open.