Everyone wants to feel safe in their home, and that’s easy enough to do with some preparation and the right equipment. Here are seven home safety essentials to ensure you’re ready for an emergency. These essentials will help you stay safe and secure in your home.
Home Safety Essentials: Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are a must-have in every home, as they detect fires in their early stages, giving your family an early warning. Install smoke detectors on every floor and in every room of your home. Keep spare batteries on hand and test the devices monthly. Set a reminder on your phone. Testing the smoke detectors is an easy task even children can assist with.
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are necessary for all homes. When properly used, an extinguisher can stop a small kitchen fire from becoming a whole-house fire. Keep fire extinguishers in easily accessible places. Make sure you and your family members are familiar with the use of the device and replace them if they’re expired.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas. Because it’s odorless and colorless, it’s impossible to detect without a carbon monoxide detector. Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, especially in sleeping areas. Like smoke detectors, you should have carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of your home.
First Aid Kit
It’s wise to have a first aid kit in your home to handle injuries. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit in a place that is easily accessible if an injury should occur. It should include bandages, gauze, alcohol, antiseptic, pain relief medicines, and scissors – supplies that can treat minor injuries and help manage major ones until help arrives.
Home Safety Essentials to Keep You Secure: Alarms
Security alarms come in a variety of forms, such as window alarms, door alarms, and motion-detecting alarms. These devices alert you if someone is trying to break in or tamper with windows and doors. Installing security alarms in your home helps to deter criminals and keeps children from accessing unsafe areas.
Secure Locks
Your home security is incomplete without secure locks. Verify all doors and windows have reliable locks that are easy to operate. Deadbolts on entryway doors are useful for added safety. Install WiFi-connected smart locks you can operate remotely to allow people into your home without a key.
Surveillance Cameras are Modern Home Safety Essentials
Install exterior cameras to monitor the surroundings of your home. Security cameras record activity and help deter burglars, giving your property extra protection whether you’re at home or away. Opt for cameras connected to a mobile app to monitor your home from your smartphone.
Your home’s safety is paramount, and these seven essentials are helpful in every home. The above items help mitigate unforeseen challenges to keep your home safe and secure.
District Home Inspection offers inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in the Washington, D.C., area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.