Faulty heating equipment can cause fires. In extreme cases, these fires can claim lives. As a result, it is essential to make sure that your gas appliances are installed by a qualified and registered gas engineer, and are also tested annually in a gas safety check. However, sometimes this isn’t enough. Here at K and M Maintenance, we are Preston’s favourite gas engineers, and we work across the North West to provide a top quality service. Consequently, we have produced this guide to home fire safety tips, to keep you and your home safe.
Distances
A distance of at least 3 foot should separate any heating equipment and any flammable objects. This include stoves, space heaters, and gas fires. This can prevent any sparks from passing to the flammable objects, and also ensure that the flammable objects will not get too hot.
Alarms
Regularly test your smoke alarms to make sure the batteries are working. You should do this at least once a month. If the batteries have died, you will need to replace them as soon as possible, without waiting. The longer your smoke alarms are left without batteries, the bigger the risk to your property and your life.
In addition, you should fit carbon monoxide alarms next to each gas appliance in your home. Although carbon monoxide itself wont cause a fire, it can be produced as part of a general gas leak, which can lead to fires.
Portable Gas heaters
Make sure that any portable gas heaters are used safely and only used in a well ventilated room. They can cause a range of problems so use with care.
In addition, you should also make sure that the fuel you use in a space heater is the correct, specified type. This can prevent fires from occurring.
Furthermore, ensure that all portable heaters are unplugged and switched off when they are not in use and especially when you go to bed or leave the home.
Installation
Don’t be tempted to skimp on the installation of your gas appliances. Poorly installed appliances are a big fire risk. As a result you should always make sure that your gas engineer is a qualified and registered engineer.
In summary
From alarms to distances, these professional fire safety tips can help to keep your property and your life, safe. If you need any further advice, or would like a gas installation from a company that you trust, contact the experts at K and M Maintenance today.