Each year, hundreds of homes fall victim to fires, causing devastating damage to families and property. Cape Coral State Farm Agents Mike and Dawn Sullivan, offer important tips to help keep your loved ones safer through fire safety and prevention tips and by offering assistance with finding the perfect fire coverage for your family’s unique needs.
“A fire safety plan is a necessity for every home. This includes regular safety checks, escape plans and an adequate insurance policy. In the event of an emergency being prepared and taking preventive measures can make all the difference in the world,” said Mike Sullivan. “We can help provide peace of mind with several safety tips in addition to offering home, renters, personal property, or liability insurance. You are not alone. We are here to help assess your family’s unique needs and to assist you should something happen.”
Planning can help protect your family in the event of a fire. Talk to your children. Let them know why it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings, no matter where you are. Take a few moments to make note of possible exit strategies should the unexpected occur. In your home, your entire family should have a planned route of escape and a predetermined meeting place to know you have all made it to safety.
Part of planning is to make a monthly schedule of testing fire and carbon monoxide detectors/alarms. It’s best to use Underwriters Laboratories (UL) tested detectors. Make sure hard-wired products are installed by a professional and that they have a battery back up in case of a power outage. The batteries should be replaced annually. There should be one in each separate area of the home including each bedroom, but not too close to drafty areas where smoke could be swept away undetected. Make sure everyone is familiar with the sound of your home’s alarms.
“Fire extinguishers can be helpful for small fires, but it’s important to know when to go!” said Dawn Sullivan. “Don’t put yourself or others at risk trying to fight the blaze on your own.”
The Sullivans advise reading the instructions and becoming familiar with the parts and operation of the extinguisher before a fire breaks out.
Remember PASS to operate the extinguisher:
Pull the pin,
Aim the nozzle,
Squeeze the lever and
Sweeping motion is used from side to side to fight the fire.
Install extinguishers near home exits and have your back to the exit as you use the extinguisher so you can escape if necessary. Extinguishers must be serviced annually and may need to be recharged.
Have an electrician review the electrical system in your home. Over time, it may need to be rewired or updated. Check your electrical cords and appliance cords, and replace them if you spot any fraying, cracking or separation of the cord from the plug.
Clean out the lint trap of your dryer after every use. Lint also builds up quickly in the dryer duct. Have a professional inspect and clean it once a year to help prevent fires.
Local fire departments often offer free advice on home fire prevention, including carbon monoxide and smoke alarm/detector placement and fire extinguisher training.
In the unfortunate event your family should experience a home fire, the Sullivan State Farm team is here to help. Whether you’re currently covered or looking to determine the best insurance options for your unique circumstances, call the Sullivan State Farm Agency at 239-541-3276 or visit the agents’ websites: mikesullivan1.com or dawnsullivan.net.
About the Sullivan State Farm Agency
Established in 2007, the Sullivan State Farm Agency is the office of State Farm agent Michael Sullivan and State Farm agent Dawn Sullivan. The family-focused business specializes in helping families and small business owners find the insurance coverage to protect their loved ones at every stage in life. For more information about Michael Sullivan, visit mikesullivan1.com. For more information about Dawn Sullivan, visit dawnsullivan.net. To contact the office, call 239-541-3276.
