The number of winter home fires has dropped in recent years, as safer systems are installed and more precautions are taken. Nonetheless, fires remain a risk and once they do break out, they can be utterly devastating in terms of loss of property and even life. At ABH Services, we can help you prepare by addressing clutter and recycling flammable items.

• Make a plan with your family. It is unpleasant to think about, but it is better to err on the side of caution when it comes to safety. Make sure everyone in your family knows what to do if there is a fire. Have at least two paths of exit prepared for every individual, in case the first one is blocked. Though there are fewer fires today, those that do break outspread more quickly due to the prevalence of synthetic materials and lightweight wood. Therefore, make sure everyone in your household knows they do not have time to go after belonging and most evacuate the premises as quickly as possible.
• Be extremely careful with alternate sources of heating (non-central heating options). Make sure to use your kerosene heaters and wood-burning stoves according to the instructions. Never keep them burning unattended and keep these heat sources far away from flammable materials.
• Test your home heating essentials. If you have a furnace or chimney, have a professional check it is all too ready for use. Make sure your smoke alarms are also in working order.
• Avoid clutter. Clutter can be a serious fire hazard in two different ways. An excessive number of flammable items close to each other can multiply potential fire causes and significantly feed the flame once the fire is ignited. When clutter piles on high, it can come into direct contact with the lighting fixtures. Many out of control fires begin in this manner.

A great degree of clutter and debris can also block potential exit paths for individuals trying to flee the path of the fire and entryways for firefighters.

• Recycle unused electronics. The improper disposal of combustible materials is one of the main causes of home fires in the United States. Batteries can be highly flammable, in particular 9-volt ones. Do not store all of your batteries together and avoid putting them in metal cases. Laptops, lightbulbs, microwaves, and other electronics can also be fire hazards. Secure the appliances you use throughout the house. Use the following instructions and keep them away from other flammable items. We recommend that you recycle any electronics you are no longer using. At ABH Services we specialize in recycling and can safely and efficiently dispose of any flammable item for you.

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