House fires are an unfortunate issue for many families, and, despite following best practices, they can’t always be prevented. It’s crucial to have a plan in case they occur. There’s nothing more important than your family’s safety, so you’ll want to put a plan in place and manage your smoke and fire alarms properly. Here’s how to get started. 

How to Prepare for House Fires

1. Place Smoke & Fire Alarms Strategically

Smoke and fire alarms need to be audible no matter where you are in your home. Most house fires occur at night, so place them outside each bedroom. Larger homes will need fire alarms in hallways and common areas—especially around the kitchen—so that there will be no concern about hearing them.

2. Establish Escape Routes

There should be two ways to escape from every room, the first being a window. The second should lead directly to a common area. Multi-floor homes will require stair access or window access for escapes. To determine the most efficient paths, draw a floor plan of your home and practice with your family.

3. Maintain Your Smoke & Fire Alarms

Smoke and fire alarms last roughly eight years, so replace them as needed. Test them once a month and replace the batteries when they run low. Most units will let you know by beeping repeatedly. If you don’t know how old your smoke and fire alarms are, check the manufacturing date, usually written on the side. Also, always purchase new units from a reputable home security company in your area.

If you’re looking for smoke and fire alarms or other home systems, Action Security & Communications has a variety of options to explore. Located in Monroe County, NY, this company has provided security cameras, safety alarms, and automation systems for over 30 years. They work with residential and commercial customers and will take every step to make your property safe. Call (800) 445-1410 to speak with a sales associate, and visit their website to explore their products and services.