(NC)-Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today. Most people not only relate to this phrase, but many will also say it was coined specifically for them. At some time, all of us can be guilty of putting off the simplest of tasks. Most are harmless, but some can be deadly.
A home safety expert with Kidde Canada, the leading smoke and carbon monoxide alarm manufacturer in the country, urgently reminds us to never procrastinate those things that can keep our families safe.
Here are some home safety tips to help protect your family from fire and CO tragedy. CO Prevention:
• Install one CSA-approved CO alarm on each level of your home and outside sleeping areas.
• Test all CO alarms monthly and replace them every five to seven years.
• Change the batteries at least once per year.
• Have a licensed inspector check heating systems and other fuel-burning appliances annually, including fireplaces.
• Keep clear all exhaust flues or ducts used by water heaters, ranges and clothes dryers (snow, ice, leaves, garbage etc). Fire Prevention:
• Install one cUL-approved smoke alarm on every level of your home and outside or in sleeping areas (if you sleep with your door closed).
• Test all smoke alarms monthly and replace them every 10 years, whether battery operated or hard-wired.
• Change batteries at least once per year.
• Prepare a fire escape plan with your family and practise it, ensuring you identify two exits from every room if possible. Consider buying a two-storey safety ladder to ensure there is a second escape route via a window.
