Daily life is busy for many people. With so much to do and so much to remember, even the most organized people can get swept away. However, there are three things around every home that need to be paid attention too. These things can be potentially dangerous if not kept on top off. Better to be safe than sorry, right? Read on to find out more.
Smoke Alarm Batteries
They are small, unobtrusive objects that live in our homes. Although they save countless lives each year, it can be easy to forget about them. In forgetting about them, the homeowner forgets to maintain them. Smoke alarms are a must for every home, and keeping them working is a must too. The National Fire Protection Association states that 38% of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms. Although a homeowner might think this does not apply to them, a smoke alarm without working batteries is as good as no alarm at all. They also report ‘510 people per year (21% of home fire deaths) were fatally injured in fires in which smoke alarms were present but failed to operate.’ These shocking statistics highlight just how important regular smoke alarm checks are.
For many devices, the homeowner and its residents can test the device themselves. This is usually done by pressing a small button on the casing. This will then indicate whether or not the batteries are still in shape. If not, it should be made an immediate priority to fix them.
Furnace Maintenance
While many homeowners rely on a furnace to keep their house warm, maintaining a furnace correctly isn’t at the top of many people’s to-do list. However, it is incredibly important. Gas furnaces combine both flames and combustible materials. While furnaces are safe if used and maintained correctly, these components are potentially deadly. Furthermore, dirty and unmaintained furnaces can emit amounts of Carbon Monoxide. This poisonous can cause serious harm or death to the homeowner and their family.
Furnace maintenance usually involved replacing any components that have become worn down and ineffective. It also includes cleaning it and calibrating the heating system. Similarly, if a homeowner needs a furnace repair, they should never put it off. Not only would doing so make the home very uncomfortable, but it could also make the home unsafe.
Home Insurance Policies
As has already been mentioned, it is challenging to keep on top of bills and paperwork. One thing that cannot be let to expire, however, is a home insurance policy. Usually, a policy will run for one year. While most companies remind their customer if their policy is due to expire, the notification could go into a Junk folder or a letter go unopened.
One month before the date of renewal is a good time to start researching renewal options. It could be sensible to stay with the same provider. Alternatively, it could be beneficial to switch. Whichever route is chosen, it is imperative to ensure that the home is left uninsured at any point.
