Following some simple guidelines can safeguard your property, keep your family protected and lower your insurance premiums. Here is a useful checklist to help you examine your home room by room.
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Use a checklist to ensure your home is as safe as possible.
Bedrooms
Keep candles away from bedding and curtains.
Limit or eliminate extension cords and never run them under carpets.
Keep cords against the wall to protect against trips and falls.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Change their batteries once every six months and replace after five years.
Install window locks to keep out intruders and window guards keep children from falling.
Keep a flashlight next to the bed in case of an emergency or power outage.
Keep bedroom and bathroom pathways uncluttered to avoid falls in the dark.
Living Spaces
Limit or eliminate extension cords and never run them under rugs.
Maintain a fireproof screen in front of your fireplace.
Keep paper, fabrics, furniture and other flammable items away from the fireplace or stove.
Install surge protectors to protect electronics.
Use non-skid backing or adhesives under rugs to prevent slipping.
Stairs and Hallways
Keep walkways free of obstacles to prevent trips or spills.
Install sturdy handrails.
Install adequate lighting and avoid overhead shadows on stairs.
Make sure stairs meet code requirements for how steep and deep they are.
Kitchen
Check the dishwasher hoses for loose connections, clogs or leaks and replace if needed.
Keep the dishwasher drain clear and free of clogs.
Check the water line feeding the icemaker in your refrigerator to be sure it is free of leaks or kinks.
Clean the range exhaust filter with soap and water to prevent grease and dirt from caking and to keep air flowing freely.
Test ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets regularly.
Unplug electric appliances when not in use.
Check hoses and pipes under the kitchen sink for leakage. Repair leaky faucets.
Seal around countertops and sinks to prevent water from seeping behind cabinets and walls, creating mold.
Have an up-to-date, working fire extinguisher that is right for all types of kitchen fires. Keep it in a visible place.
Bathroom
Maintain sink, tub and shower tiles, caulking and seals to prevent water infiltration and mold growth.
Check toilet water lines and seals for leaks.
Look for damp or discolored spots on walls and floors than can signal plumbing leaks.
Test all GFCI outlets regularly.
Keep electrical appliances like hairdryers and shavers away from water.
Keep all household cleaners, hair dyes, mouthwashes and poisonous products on high shelves, out of reach of children.
Put a slip-proof mat or adhesives in the tub to prevent falls.
Hang up mats when not in use to prevent mold growth.
Keep exhaust fan clean and properly vented to the exterior.
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