Tag: safety

Important Safety Factors in the Home 

August is National Wellness Month, and for many people, that means taking some personal time to focus on their health and well-being. For those with a home and a family, National Wellness Month will include some thought and concern for others and the home’s safety. 

There are a few important things to consider when it comes to keeping the home and its occupants safe. During this month, take some time and focus on smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and electrical safety. Doing so will not only prevent injuries and illness but can also provide a lot of peace of mind. 

Installing Smoke Detectors 

Smoke detectors help give early warnings about fires by alerting people to smoke or fine particulates in the air with loud beeps or sirens. These devices are incredibly sensitive and can be the difference between life and death in a serious fire. Often smoke detectors are part of a home security system and are hard-wired into the home’s power. 

Smoke detectors are ubiquitous in every home, or they should be. According to fire codes, every single home should have multiple smoke detectors. Smoke detectors should be placed in every room and hallway except the kitchen and the bathroom. Homeowners should take time every month to test smoke detectors by pressing the “test” button. Every year the batteries should be replaced. Even if smoke detectors are hard-wired into the home, backup batteries should be replaced so protection remains even if the power goes out. 

Check the Carbon Monoxide Detectors 

Carbon monoxide detectors are slightly different from smoke detectors. Some smoke detectors can sense carbon monoxide, but separate carbon monoxide detectors will need to be installed unless the function is explicitly stated. Often, separate detectors will be installed simply because the placement of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors is separate. 

Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas resulting from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Symptoms of exposure can include: 

• Headache
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Blurred vision

Prolonged exposure can even lead to neurological problems and death. To stay safe from carbon monoxide, place detectors in living rooms, bedrooms, and near appliances that burn fossil fuels. 

Schedule Electrical Inspections 

Electricity is one of the best conveniences of modern living but is also one of the biggest threats. Electricity is the source of electrical shocks and fires in hundreds of homes and businesses every year. Most people need to learn that most of the problems associated with electricity are completely preventable with electrical inspections. 

Electrical systems in the home are designed to last for decades. This can give homeowners a false sense of security about their safety. However, electrical devices are used daily in the home, so certain components tend to wear out and present hazards. Allowing a professional to inspect the electrical system can help them locate and repair problems arising from overuse so the home stays safe. 

Some of the things an electrician will inspect are: 

• Loose outlets
• Exposed wiring
• Breaker panels
• Switches
• GFCIs 
• Electrical connections 

About Atlas Home Service

Atlas Home Service offers unparalleled HVAC and electrical services to local homeowners. Licensed and insured technicians perform inspections and repairs. Call today for a smoke detector service in Alexandria, LA. 

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