A Home Safety Checklist to Keep Your Omaha Family Protected

The more prepared you are for an emergency, the more likely you are to come through with minimal loss or damage. Creating a home safety checklist is an efficient way to highlight safety hazards and limit their presence on your property.

This home safety list is divided into three categories: electrical, chemical and fire hazards. Ideally, you and your family should run through the list twice each year for optimal safety precautions.

Electrical hazards

• Replace any cords or extension cords that are cracked, frayed or have exposed wires, bent prongs or loose connections.
• Never overload outlets. Ideally, you should only have one plug per outlet. Avoid using multiple-outlet plugs.
• Keep electrical cords from running along pipes, over nails, across/over heaters or under rugs.
• Exposed outlets and wiring should be covered.
• Replace or repair any appliances that overheat, spark or smoke.

Chemical hazards

• Any flammable liquids should be stored in approved safety containers. If possible, avoid storing them in an attached garage, as this can compromise indoor air quality. They should be covered tightly and stored in a well-ventilated area.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors.
• Flammable liquids stored in the home should be placed in well-labeled safety containers. Keep them away from heat sources, flames, children and gas appliances.
• Combustible liquids should always be stored away from heat sources.
• Store polishing rags and/or oily waste in metal containers.
• Never use fire-starting chemicals indoors.

Home safety fire hazards

• Clear your home, garage and storage areas of broken furniture, old mattresses, rags, papers and other flammable items.
• Keep clothing, fabric and material away from electrical equipment, gas appliances or other flammable materials.
• Maintain a fire barrier around your home by keeping the landscape free of dry brush and debris.
• Clean and maintain chimneys, vent connectors, gas vents and flue pipes.
• Call 9-1-1 immediately if you suspect a gas leak.
• Never light lanterns or candles near curtains or other flammable items.
• Ensure portable heaters have automatic-off switches and use them on firm, level surfaces. Avoid using extension cords with portable heaters.

By reviewing this checklist twice a year, your home will be less susceptible to unnecessary safety hazards. Fred’s Heating and Air has been dedicated to ensuring the safety and comfort of our Omaha clients for over 25 years.