Here are some of the basic principles of fire damage prevention:
a. Be cautious when using flammable items. When someone in your family smokes, tell him to throw his cigarette butts properly, and not to simply flick his still lighted cigarette butt on your garden and lawn where it can come contact with dried leaves and possibly start a fire.
b. Be attentive when in the kitchen. Because most fires start in the kitchen, teach your family members to be very wary when using it. Tell them to use proper precautions when cooking on stovetops or even when using the microwaves. Use proper settings as microwaves may explode when used improperly. You should also tell them not leave whatever they're cooking.
c. Teach them how to check for faulty wirings and electrical systems, as these are the most common causes of fire and fire damage. Older members of the family should learn and find time to check the wirings. Have them around when you are checking your house's wirings and electrical system so everyone would know how to get things done properly.
d. Ask every member of your family to be very cautious when storing flammable items. They have to make sure that no flammables like thinners, paints or kerosene are stored in the same area as old clothes, rugs or papers. Tell them not to store gasoline inside the house as this might cause fire and fire damage when stored in improperly ventilated areas. Most especially, keep these items out of reach of small children as they could get curious and may set them aflame accidentally. A number of fire damage cases reported were said to involve children playing with flammables.
e. Plan for fire escape routes or fire damage prevention simulation. You and your family could conduct a drill on fire damage prevention. You can use this as an opportunity to teach them what to do in case a fire breaks out accidentally. Teach them what kind of fire escape plan they should take in case you are not with them. Practice a simulation of a fire situation when you are present as well.
f. Teach every member of the family to use fire alarms and fire extinguishers. This will come in handy when fire begins. Destructive fire can be prevented if it has been put out immediately.
Aside from these, you can also ask help from your local fire station and fire marshals for more tips regarding fire damage prevention. You may also request them to inspect your house for fire safety so you will know if there's something else that you have forgotten.
With lots of practice and drills, as well as following the basics of fire damage prevention, you can save your properties from fire. Most especially, you can save the lives of your family and your neighbors who can get affected in case a fire breaks out in your house.
