There are common safety hazards in the home that you would not think could hurt you and your family if you are not mindful. Home insurance covers your house’s structures and personal property, but you need liability coverage if you want protection from legal responsibility for hazards.
Home and the Dangers
The average home contains a plethora of dangers that can cause injury or even death. To keep residents and guests safe, look out for the following threats this National Safety Month.
The Stove Is More Dangerous Than You May Think
While stoves are essential kitchen appliances, they’re also home safety hazards. Their hots surfaces can cause burns if not used carefully. Additionally, hot food or pans can burn individuals if not adequately handled. Steam burns pose another threat, as hot air can erupt suddenly from a covered dish when you lift the lid.
Grease fires are another concern, as many people don’t know how to deal with them. Throwing water on one will only make the situation worse. Instead, you must smother the fire with a damp towel, metal pot lid, or non-flammable materials such as baking soda or salt.
Blind Cords Are a Hazard to Children
During the summer, you may open windows to increase airflow. However, those long cords present a strangling risk to young children. Toddlers and infants may play with these cords and accidentally wrap them around their necks.
To prevent this, place long cords out of reach. Depending on the length, you may even consider trimming them.
Many Household Products Are Potential Poisons
The average home contains dozens of chemicals that can be harmful if ingested, inhaled, or in contact with the eyes:
- Air fresheners
- Drain cleaners
- Bathroom cleaners
- Bleach
- Antifreeze
- Laundry detergent
To prevent poisoning, you should clearly label these items and keep them out of reach of children. If you must keep them in lower cabinets, install child-proof locks.
Fires Are a Common Danger
Most home insurance policies cover fire, as this danger can be one of the most destructive. Even if first responders can extinguish a small blaze before it gets out of control, their efforts may leave you with a big mess to clean up.
Fire also poses a considerable risk to residents and pets. Flames spread quickly, and smoke inhalation can damage the lungs even if you avoid getting burned. Here are some ways that house fires start.
- Frayed wires
- Unattended candles
- Lit cigarettes
- Illuminated Christmas trees and other holiday decorations
Stairs Are Responsible for One of the Most Common Hazards
Of all the safety hazards in your home, falling is one of the most common and least considered. Ice-covered porch steps or slippery stairs can lead to broken bones or even death. Keeping all steps clean and dry is essential to prevention, but sometimes that isn’t enough.
In some cases, stairs require stabilization. Secure flooring and handrails ensure residents have enough traction and assistance with scaling steep inclines. Additionally, steps and stairs should have adequate lighting so users can see where they’re going.
About Brooks, Todd & McNeil
Since 1839, the independent agents at Brooks, Todd & McNeil have been pleased to offer our community the best and most affordable policies from a variety of providers. Our dedicated facilitators are ready to put their 75 years of combined experience to work on your claims. To learn more about our products and services, contact us today at (800) 448-4567.