In our previous blog post, we looked at how to protect our family and property by making smarter everyday choices, such as using more caution while cooking, or being careful to not leave lit cigarettes near flammable materials. In today's blog post, we'll look at property fire hazards that can cause personal injury and major damage to homes, apartments or other nearby property.
One of the most common property fire hazards to be aware of is old or damaged electrical appliances. Over time, electric cords and cables can become frayed or damaged, exposing wire that can easily start a house fire. In addition, older appliances can quickly overheat, burning motors and anything else nearby. The safest choice is to replace damaged cables or older appliances like refrigerators, hairdryers, irons, toasters, or microwaves, with newer and energy efficient models.
Another less common but still dangerous fire hazard within our property is improper storage of flammable materials and liquids. Too often, garage fires begin and engulf entire homes because flammable liquids such as gasoline, pesticides, oils, paints, and other chemicals are not stores safely or away from heat sources. The same is true inside a home when aerosol sprays like room deodorizers or hairspray is left too close to a candle or other heat source. Proper storage and disposal of flammable liquids is key to reducing the threat of fire within your home.
Finally, a growing number of fires have started in homes and apartment complexes because of an unusual culprit – the clothes dryer. Over time, the dryer's vent can become clogged with lint, not just in the removable lint trap but also in the duct that runs behind dryers. Aluminum or plastic ducts can easily become clogged with lint, either getting stuck in the duct's ridges, or because the duct sags over time, allowing lint to gather at the bottom. The safest course is to replace flexible aluminum or plastic ducts with a metal duct that can eliminate lint better and can better contain a fire, giving homeowners time to extinguish the fire or get help before the fire spreads to the entire home.
Although fires can completely devastate a home or apartment, and can cause serious injury or death, there are simple steps we can take to reduce or eliminate the threat of a fire. Homeowners and apartment residents can increase their protection through quality and reliable insurance solutions from Aegis. Aegis is a Houston-based insurance agency specializing in providing clients with custom insurance solutions that meet their unique needs, whether it's Homeowners Insurance, Renter's Insurance, Auto, Business or Life Insurance. The friendly and knowledgeable agents of Aegis can help clients save money by bundling insurance policies together for a significant annual premium discount. Contact Aegis at 713-850-7622 for more information, or go online today for a free quote!