With the extra time at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us have begun rethinking the safety of our homes. Take advantage of the down time by making these 6 simple adjustments to increase your homes safety in under 30 minutes, provided by RealSimple.com.
How to Make your Home Safer in 30 minutes:
Test your Smoke Detectors - To make sure the batteries in your smoke detectors still have juice and your detector’s aren’t faulty, simply hold down the “Test” button for a few seconds. If the alarm sounds, the batteries are still good and the detector is working. If the alarm doesn’t sound, replace the batteries and repeat. If you still don’t hear a sound after changing the batteries, replace the detector.
Reduce the Risk of Kitchen Fires - Remove dish towels and other flammable items from surfaces near your stove top. Also, consider purchasing a fire extinguisher meant for distinguishing grease fires and keeping it stored close by in the kitchen.
Check Outlets - It’s possible that outlets are becoming overloaded during quarantine, because all of your family members are probably charging their electronics more often and at the same time. Make sure to check that the outlets aren’t overloaded, keep an eye out for frayed charging cords, and keep all cords up against walls to prevent tripping hazards.
Prevent Tripping Hazards - With no need to clean up for guests, clutter may start to pile up. Take a minute to pick up toys, books, clothes, and everything else laying on the floor. This will help prevent any trip and fall injuries over items that shouldn’t be there in the first place.
Improve Air Quality - If you have a humidifier, now is a great time to clean it. Otherwise, you are recycling germs in and out of the air. Also, change your HVAC filter and dust all vents.
Store Cleaning Supplies Properly - If you’ve stocked up on cleaning supplies, make sure to store them out of reach of children and pets. Under the sink isn’t the best place unless you have child proof locks on your cabinets. Higher storage areas are best for safe practices. While you’re at it, make sure all products are clearly labeled.
