Protect Your Home From A Fire

As discussed in the past, we’ve gone over how to protect yourselves from a flood. But what about other disasters, like a fire? While achieving a fireproof house is difficult, there are ways to prevent a small fire from growing and potentially engulfing your entire home.

The Roof

A roof can often make the difference between if your home survives a fire or not, as many fires begin when embers find their way onto the roof. Make sure your roof is constructed of a non-flammable material like asphalt, metal, slate, or tile. Keep your gutters clean of leaves, and pine needles, as these can be the perfect kindling for any embers that land on your roof.

Cover Openings

Your home is full of flammable items, and it is vital to keep embers out. You’ll want to cover any openings into your home with hardware cloth to prevent embers from entering the house and sparking a flame. Also, invest in double-paned, tempered-glass windows that will withstand high temperatures better.

Defensible Zone Around Your House

In the event of a fire, you’ll want to keep highly flammable objects at least 30 feet away from your home. These are items like any firewood or fuel that you store outside. Mulch is also highly flammable, and stone or gravel is recommended for landscaping instead if you live in an area prone to fires. Water your outdoor plants regularly, and trim any low-hanging branches near your home. Keep your property as debris-free as possible.

Be Prepared

As with any disaster, preparedness is key. Create a disaster plan well before you ever need it. You should know exactly which flammable objects you’ll need to relocate away from your home and where you will meet up with family if separated. Make sure your house is well-stocked with several functioning fire extinguishers in easy-to-access locations. All fire extinguishers should be inspected regularly, and everyone in your household should know how to use one.

Conclusion:

Don’t be caught unprepared when faced with a fire disaster. Remember these vital tips to protect your home. Ask us about fire-resistant materials in your next construction project.