By Karla Sullivan
According to the American Red Cross, unfortunately the answer is yes. The National Fire Association (NFPA) reports that residential fires across the country have increased 8 percent since 2000 and the Red Cross response to home fires has increased as well and they usually increase during the fall and winter. And what about injuries?
In Decatur, Alabama, a woman was found unresponsive in a recent house fire, was revived at the hospital but eventually died from smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is under investigation though one area of her home was heavy with electrical appliances and extension cords which could be a fire hazard.
A house fire in Maryland killed three people and according to Anne Arundel County firefighters there had been at least 16 major fires in the month of February and that didn’t include the blaze that killed six people in the Annapolis area in January.
What is the number one cause of house fires? Cooking and unattended cooking is by far the most dangerous; these fires caused an average of 400 civilian deaths, 5,080 reported civilian fire injuries, and $853 million in direct property damage per year.
Commissioner Ralph T. Hudgens places a strong emphasis on fire safety education in Georgia. Some fire safety rules that is taught are as follows:
· In homes more than one level, place at least one smoke alarm on each level.
· In case of fire, stay closer to the floor while getting quickly
· Have a home escape plan; making sure there are two ways out
· Stay three feet away from the fireplace when a fire is burning
· Watching cooking handles
· Keep an eye on what you fry
· Check to make sure all smoking materials are out
Currently, fires account for over 6 billion in damages and even though you feel that your home is safe, electrical and heating elements checked and smoke alarms in place, what will happen if your home is seriously damaged or totally consumed by fire. Is you home protected adequately with insurance?
Most home insurance policies will cover fire but there may be limits so you always want to check with your agent for the best coverage. Most standard homeowners insurance policies that cover fire loss come with the benefit of reimbursed additional living expenses but can you make your home safer and get possible lower insurance rates and policy discounts if anything happens to your home? Can you add to your home now to avoid major problems, get a break on home insurance and even save your home from disaster in the long run?
Farmers Insurance suggests the following tips to safe guard you home for possible discounts:
· Secure your home with dead bolts and window locks.
· Install a security system with an outside signal and connection to local police.
· Install and maintain smoke detectors.
· Install a sprinkler system for fire.
· Install a fire alarm that automatically alerts the local fire department.
· Stop smoking.
· Keep walks and entrance ways clear of snow and ice.
· You may also qualify for discounts on premiums when you buy both homeowners and auto insurance.
American Family Insurance also offers discounts on home insurance if your home is equipped with a qualifying smoke/fire alarm system, a burglar alarm or an automatic sprinkler system.
If you can help to protect your home as well prevent claims, you will also create peace of mind. With some insurance plans, if you live in a gated community or close to the local fire department you may save money on your insurance.
