Keeping your home safe and secure can be easier than it seems. With a few simple everyday actions, you can prevent unexpected situations in your home, such as fires or floods. As prevention is key, here are some tips to keep in mind when taking small steps to help avoid major risks.
1- When you notice a water leak in a tap, fix it as soon as possible;
2- Use filters in sink and washbasin drains and unclog them regularly;
3- Ensure the correct maintenance of stove or hob nozzles and safety devices;
4- Keep matches, lighters, or any other flammable products out of the reach of children.
5- Do not place curtains, fabrics, or other easily flammable objects near heat sources such as stoves, heaters, or fireplaces.
6- When unplugging a device, do not pull on the electrical cord.
7- Never plug in electrical appliances that are wet, damp, or have damaged cords;
8- Keep the exhaust fan filter clean;
9- In the event of a malfunction or short circuit in an electrical appliance, turn off the power at the main electrical panel;
10- Do not attempt to repair electrical or gas installations. Call a certified professional;
11- Do not open the door of your house or building to anyone without being sure of their identity;
12- Always lock the door, whether you are outside or inside the house;
13- If you live in a ground floor house, consider installing protective bars on the windows;
14- If you move house or lose/have your keys stolen, replace the locks immediately;
15- Whenever you are away from home for a long period of time, unplug any equipment that does not need to be left on, turn off the water meter, and inform your family or neighbors to be on the lookout for any suspicious activity around the house;
16- Consider installing an alarm system;
17- If you have a garden or yard, clean up leaves during the fall;
18- Whenever there are warnings of storms, rain, strong winds, heat waves, and forest fires, pay attention to the recommendations of the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere and Civil Protection;
19- In case of extreme weather events, identify in advance the places that could serve as shelter;
20- Multi-risk insurance for your home and its contents ensures the protection of your home and your belongings, guaranteeing safety and comfort for the whole family.
Source: idealistanews