Life is stressful enough without having to worry about things that may never happen. Whether you’re a homeowner or renting, there are lots of things that could go wrong with your home. But, by taking a few simple precautions, you can put those worries behind you and gain a little peace of mind.
1. Home Security
When you build a beautiful home for your family, you want to make sure that it is safe. You want to protect your property, and most of all, you want to protect your home’s inhabitants. According to police, homes with no security measures in place are five times more likely to be burgled than those with simple security measures in place. The following are some simple steps you can take to increase your home’s and family’s safety.
Lock all doors and windows whenever you leave the house
Ensure keys to doors and windows are safely stored away, and ensure they are not visible and within reach
Install a burglar alarm and quality CCTV systems, which will not only protect your home but act as a deterrent
Ensure your home is well lit, including the exterior and garden
Make friends with your neighbours and look out for each other’s properties
Remove anything from outside your home that could be used to access windows and doors, such as bins, ladders, etc.
2. Safety First
Each year, hundreds of people are injured due to accidents that take place within the home. Many of these could be prevented by taking a few simple precautions. Firstly, protect your home against fire. Instal smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors and ensure they are in good working order. Check them at least once a month and put this in your diary, so you don’t forget. Make sure you have an emergency plan in case of fire or other disaster and ensure each member of the family is aware of it. Know your escape routes and where to meet up in the event of an emergency situation.
It’s also important to take steps to prevent fire from breaking out. The following are some simple safety practices to adhere to:
Never leave lit candles or a stove unattended
Check cables and wires regularly and cease use if there are any signs of damage
Don’t overload plug sockets
Keep items such as tea towels, paper towels, etc. away from the cooker
Ensure chimneys are inspected and cleaned once a year
Keep flammable materials such as clothing, furniture, etc. away from heat sources
And it’s not just fires that cause accidents and harm in the home. Many people are injured each year through other accidents. Take sensible precautions to prevent this. Common accidents include falling objects, trips, burns, choking, poisoning and drowning.
3. Maintenance
Many accidents and injuries can be avoided by keeping on top of your home’s maintenance. Set up an annual checklist of maintenance tasks. This will include yearly checks such as the boiler, gas, and chimneys and checks that need to be made more regularly. Even simple things such as keeping your home clean and clutter free can help avoid tripping, etc.
Once you have outlined your plans and put these simple checks in place, you can feel comfortable and assured that your family and possessions are safe.