Your homeowners insurance policy protects you in case of a major disaster like a fire or flood. While there are some incidents you can’t prevent, taking steps to monitor your home and make small repairs can reduce your risk of an accident. In addition to decreasing your likelihood of filing an insurance claim, being proactive about maintenance and safety may help lower your premium. The following guide outlines a few tips for making your home a safer place for your family.

Keep an Eye on Your Appliances

Dishwashers, refrigerators, and laundry machines are among the leading causes of leaks and water damage in homes. Inspect your appliances and connectors regularly for cracks and kinks that can impact the water lines. Schedule professional inspections at least once a year to make sure the appliances are working properly.

Watch Your Water Pressure 

Excessive water pressure can damage pipes and eventually break through them. These plumbing malfunctions can lead to significant property damage; although filing a homeowners insurance claim offsets the cost of recovery, buying a pressure gauge and water sensor can help you prevent the issue. These inexpensive devices alert you to the earliest signs of a problem, so you can call a plumber quickly.

Inspect All Alarms

To protect your family’s respiratory health, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every month. Upgrading to interconnected hard-wired alarms ensures every device in the home will activate no matter where a problem occurs, increasing your family’s chances of escaping a dangerous situation.

You should also schedule a radon test, which detects a poisonous, radioactive gas that has been linked to asthma, allergies, and lung cancer.

Reduce Home Hazards

Millions of Americans injure themselves in their homes each year, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable. You may not recognize the threat a slippery rug, dimly lit hallway, or staircase with no handrail poses until it’s too late. You can minimize the risks for everyone in your family by keeping your floors clean, adding nonslip strips to all rugs, and adding adequate lighting to all indoor and outdoor walkways.

Prevent Indoor Pollution

Without proper maintenance, air conditioners, furnaces, and vents can collect debris that poses a fire hazard and decreases the air quality in your home. To curb the spread of allergens and harmful bacteria, and reduce the risk of a house fire, schedule regular HVAC inspections and vent cleanings. 

The professionals at Custis Insurance Service of Sheffield Lake, OH, have been helping clients protect their families for over 60 years. In addition to affordable homeowners insurance, the agency also offers life, business, and auto policies to suit every need. Call today at (440) 949-­7171 or visit their website to learn more.