New and longtime homeowners both find themselves unaware of aspects of their home that are crucial for safety. It’s easy to enjoy day-to-day life at home and not think twice about what to do if the power goes out, if there’s a gas leak, etc.
To help make sure you’re prepared, here are some home safety tips that can make a big difference if or when things go awry:
Become familiar with best practices for gas safety
While no one thinks a gas leak or stove accident will happen to them, the unexpected can happen if you don’t take preventative measures. Learn about the locations of gas shut-off valves for your house and observe gas pipes for odd sounds or smells. In addition, gas fireplaces and stoves need plenty of ventilation and a careful eye. When not using gas appliances, make sure they are properly shut-off and not left on for an unnecessary length of time. Any gas leak, no matter how small, requires immediate attention.
Know the locations of electrical panels
Learn about the locations of electrical panel (or panels) in your home. A home maintenance professional can explain details about the switches, safety precautions, and what to do during a power outage. Consider writing down recommended steps to take in case of an outage or another issue. (And don’t forget to contact a licensed electrician, like Pronto, if you suspect repairs are needed.)
Understand & maintain your water heater
It’s easy to overlook the functions of water heaters and water shut-off valves. However, if something breaks or a leak occurs, managing water flow becomes critical. Ask your local home repair professional about the details of your water system so that you understand what to do in an emergency. Better yet, schedule a $99 water heater tune-up with Pronto so you can have piece of mind that everything’s running safely and efficiently.
Other suggestions for home safety include regular garage ventilation, careful storage of home chemicals, and keeping fireplaces clean. Be aware of your home’s overall atmosphere, how the air smells in various spaces, and what features need maintenance. (Tip: Always have phone numbers on hand for advice or maintenance services just in case there’s an emergency in your home.)
Above all, be sure to keep your home well maintained and you won’t be caught off guard when things stop working correctly.
For more home safety tips, be sure to check out the Safety section on our blog.
