San Antonio: As fall arrives are you Fire Ready?
11/13/2014 (Permalink)
For many people, the fall season is a time to enjoy cooler temperatures, beautifully colored leaves and family oriented get togethers, like Thanksgiving. While you are busy whipping up delicious dishes, it is also important to take time to remember safety.
Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire-related injuries in the United States. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports U.S. fire departments respond to an estimated average of 156,600 home structure fires each year- that is two of every five fires reported. These fires are responsible for thousands of injuries and more than $853 million in property damage. By taking a few precautions, you can help ensure your holiday plans don't go up in smoke!
A fire extinguisher can be a life saving tool when used correctly. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommends individuals are properly trained in order to use and maintain an extinguisher. USFA says an extinguisher should only be used if:
- You have alerted other occupants and someone has called the fire department;
- The fire is small and contained to a single object, such as a wastebasket;
- You are safe from the toxic smoke produced by the fire;
- You have a means of escape identified and the fire is not between you and the escape route;
- Your instincts tell you that it is safe to use an extinguisher
Your local SERVPRO of Braun Station Professionals want you to stay safe for the holidays. If you do experience a fire or water damage, we are here to help you make it, "Like it never even happened." Call us at (210) 267-2159.