Life can be unpredictable. Homeowners should protect their property and their loved ones by keeping certain items on hand. Even cautious people are sometimes missing important home safety essentials. Here are the four most important ones that everyone should have.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors are Home Safety Essentials
Most homes have smoke detectors. However, they do not always have them in the proper places and many homeowners forget to test them periodically. Carbon monoxide detectors are also very important, but less common in homes.
Luckily, today you can get a combo detector that works for both smoke and carbon monoxide. This is a great idea for saving both time and money. There should be at least one of these detectors per floor, one in every hallway, and one in each bedroom.
Fire Extinguishers
A fire extinguisher is one of the most basic home safety essentials, yet many homes do not have them. It is a good idea to have one in the kitchen and one in the garage. Make sure they are easy to access and not expired. Every family member should know how to operate it. A fire extinguisher can stop a small fire from getting out of control.
Home Safety Essentials in a Disaster
Perhaps the most commonly forgotten item on the list of home safety essentials is a disaster kit. These kits are designed to get you and your loved ones through an unexpected disaster. It should include things like water, flashlights, non-perishable food, a battery-powered radio, personal hygiene items, and cash. Keep a copy of important documents in your emergency kit. Remember to pack medications that you or a family member may need. If you have pets, include their food in the kit as well. You can get more ideas for your disaster kit from the American Red Cross.
First-Aid Kit
All homes should have a well-stocked first-aid kit. Restock this kit as items are used. A good first-aid kit will include things like bandages, gauze, sterile eye dressings, tweezers, skin rash cream, and over-the-counter pain medicine. A properly stocked first-aid kit is necessary on your list of home safety essentials.
Second Opinion Home Inspections offers inspection services to customers in Door and Kewaunee counties. Contact us to request an appointment.