Having your house burned down in a fire is probably the worst disaster you can ever think of - but one that you can also prevent. That’s why it pays to be proactive and vigilant in fire-proofing your home - and you can start with these simple steps that you can already apply starting today as we enter Fire Prevention Month.
1. Close the Gas Tank After Cooking
Using LPG tanks is still the most common method for cooking among Filipino households compared to induction or electric stoves. And while LPG tanks are generally safe to use, one can never be too careful when you have a tank full of gas inside your home. So as a precautionary measure, one should always close the valve at the top of the tank after everytime you cook. This simple habit can prevent gas leaks which can lead to a potential fire. You should also keep your matches and lighters safely stored away from children especially near the kitchen. If you or a family member smokes, better to do it outside and dispose cigarette butts properly. And make sure to keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in case of emergency.
2. Avoid Overcrowding Electrical Sockets
Did you know that faulty electrical connection is the top reason for house fires in the Philippines? These include old wirings, illegal connections (what is commonly referred to as “jumpers”), and overloaded outlets. So if you have multiple appliances that you need for a certain area, better to check first with an electrician if your outlet can bear the required electrical load. This is most applicable to heat-bearing appliances such as microwave oven, oven toaster, water kettle, flat iron, and so on. If you do need them placed in the same area, make sure to use them alternately to prevent overloading. Heavy duty appliances such as aircon and ref need their own socket and wiring which are specific to their requirements - don’t just plug these anywhere. And if you do need to use an extension cord, use it thoughtfully and avoid octopus connections. Unplug all appliances when not in use to avoid fire (and even save energy).
3. Use Rechargeable Lights During Brownouts
How many times have we heard the story of a brownout which lead to a massive fire - all because of a lit candle that was unattended overnight? If you do need to use candles during a brownout, make sure to put them out before you go to sleep. But if you want to be on the safe side, better to use rechargeable lights or flashlights instead. Keep them in a fixed but easy-to-reach area so you don’t need to struggle in finding them while it’s pitch black. Make sure to store batteries and plug in your rechargeable lights ahead of time.
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