Limit the risk of shock or fire and claiming Homeowners Insurance with some helpful tips & advice on fire safety in your home.
Electricity usage in our homes
What would we do without electricity? Also known in South Africa as load shedding! Our homes are built and structured around power points as we have so many appliances that require power. How often do we check our electrical appliances and plug points? We are constantly rushing to charge our phones or blow dry our hair. We neglect to check the wear and tear of electrical sockets and appliances.
Common causes of electrical hazards
If we look at the common reasons for electrical hazards and fires, we can identify some helpful tips to avoid such occurrences in our home,
- Faulty appliances or plug points
Common causes are faulty or unused appliances, where the cord has become old or frayed. Never use an appliance with a frayed cord, as this sends heat directly to combustible surfaces immediately.
- Light fixtures
Check the maximum recommended bulb wattage before changing your light fixtures. Installing a bulb with a wattage too high can cause an electrical fire.
- Extension Cords
The use of extension cords should only be used for a temporary measure. Always plug appliances directly into a plug point.
- Heaters
Portable space heaters left close to combustible surfaces such as curtains can be dangerous. Coil space heaters should be avoided as they can become too hot very quickly and cause a fire.
- Wiring
Outdated wiring can cause fires; if your home was built some time ago, the wiring might not be able to withstand the amounts of electrical appliances used in today’s age.
Keep safe & protect your home
The Fire Protection Association of South Africa regularly provides general safety tips. We have outlined some of the most essential & helpful tips you can carry out in your home to avoid fire devastation.
- Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children
- Know what number to call in a fire emergency & memorise it
- Do not overload electrical sockets or use extension cords
- Install smoke detectors in your home, specifically in the kitchen
- Take care with heat appliances such as irons, kettles, and heaters
- Develop and practice an escape plan with two possible exits
- Never use flammable liquids for starting braai’s
- Ensure you have a fire extinguisher in your home
- Regularly check your wiring & electrical appliance cords
- Seek professional assistance with any new electrical installations
In the event of a fire, what to do?
Should a fire break out in your home, it is important to stay calm, not panic and ensure you and your family are safe. In the event of a fire, we advise,
- Exit your home quickly
- Ensure everyone is safe
- Call for emergency assistance
- Do not re-enter your home
Homeowners (Building) Insurance explained
Following the destruction of fire, we look to rebuilding and repairing. Homeowners insurance can be the light at the end of that dark tunnel. Ensure you have the right cover in place, specifically cover for damage to your home caused by electrical damage. Your insurer is chosen with trust and reassurance. Our Rodel4U approved brokers will always make the time to discuss your policy cover to ensure you are covered in the event of a loss.
Every day our homes are exposed to various risks and threats such as storms, lightning, theft, fire, floods, or explosions. The effects can be devastating, both emotionally and financially. Ensuring you have the right cover in place for your home is a top priority. Homeowners insurance protects all your structures, fittings, and fixtures of your property.
Be safe, cautious and take time to check the small things, including your Homeowners insurance policy which can be life-altering in the long term.
