5 Things to do to protect yourself from appliance fires.
- Register new appliances. By doing this you should be notified right away if the product is recalled. It’s often as easy as going to a web-site or making a phone call.
- Install fire-prevention equipment. This may sound obvious but the fact is that almost 2/3 of home fire deaths occur in homes that lack working smoke alarms.
- Inspect power cords. Be on the lookout for frayed cords. Never route extension cords (or any electrical cords) under carpeting where they can over-heat or be damaged by furniture.
- Check your home’s wiring. Gee, where have you heard this before. Older homes sometimes can’t handle the electrical demands of new appliances. Ask your favorite electrician about arc-fault circuit interrupters which can detect danger in your wires. While getting them may cost a couple hundred $$ it is probably money well spent as over 30,000 fires are caused each year by arc faults.
- Practice kitchen safety. Unattended cooking is a common fire starter. Pay attention - your smoke alarm is not a signal for dinner being ready. Also, unplug small appliances like toasters and coffeemakers when not in use or when you are away for long periods.
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