A recent news story about carbon monoxide poisoning has raised concern for my friends, family and clients.
Some of the most dangerous situations are often the most simple and inexpensive items to address. I’ve attached a quick checklist to help identify and fix some of the most obvious items we all tend to overlook. The list is not exhaustive so please be on the look-out for other problems in your home.
If you need any further information or help identifying a solution, please let me know, and as always if you know anyone in need of real estate help I’m always ready to serve.
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Simple Safety Checklist
r Carbon Monoxide Detectors. The federal government requires CO detectors to be installed on all new homes, rentals and homes being re-sold. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer because it’s colorless and odorless and can cause its victim to become drowsy and sleepy. CO replaces oxygen in the victim’s blood stream. Detectors should be placed by each sleeping area on each floor. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
r Smoke and fire alarms. Older alarms need to be replaced after about 10 years as their effectiveness diminishes with time. Be certain to test your alarms monthly and replace the batteries once per year at minimum. Even if an old battery passes the test it can quickly fail during its alarm cycle. New technology alarms are available with 10 year maintenance free batteries and specialized alarms designed to work in a kitchen environment. It’s worth a trip to the home store.
r GFCI’s. Ground fault circuit interrupters are installed to prevent shock and should be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, garages and outdoor outlets. Purchase an inexpensive tester with a GFCI test button and verify that all interrupters are working. This should be done annually.
r Electrical cords. Extension cords and multi-outlet strips are a major cause of house fires. Cord plug ends should be examined for fraying or other signs of failure like discoloration or even warmth to the touch. Try to minimize the number of cords attached to a single outlet and if a cord is not in use, unplug it. Never run a cord across a walk-way or under a carpet.
r Rescue Ladders. Often forgotten, upstairs bedrooms can become a trap during a fire. Each room should have a way out; consider equipping each room with an escape ladder.
r Visibility; street numbers, lighted walkways. If a firefighter cannot find your home in a hurry, his delay could be deadly. Experience arriving at your home at night to see if it can be easily found. If not be sure your house numbers are reflective and visible. Lighted walkways can prevent tripping and help lead a rescuer to your front door.
r Non-slip tubs. Believe it or not, slippery tubs are a major cause of injury and death. Install inexpensive non-slip strips and for the elderly install “grab” bars to assist while entering the tub.
For additional tips visit http://www.nsc.org/safety_home/Pages/safety_at_hom.aspx
Courtesy of Linnea Jones – Windermere Real Estate 425-765-2211
