Spring cleaning is vital for fire safety

  • Published
  • Whiteman Fire Prevention Office
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Spring cleaning is an annual ritual for many people. Just as the first flowers of spring usher in a new beginning for nature, spring cleaning habits signify a fresh start after the long winter months. 

Spring cleaning can take on another meaning. It's the ideal time to check homes and yards for dangerous materials and unsafe conditions and to spend the time to protect our families and property. 

Start by taking a few minutes to plan a safety clean up day. Check each room in the house, including the attic and basement. Don't forget the garage, yard and storage shed.
Plan to do several different things: 

  1. Remove All Hazards.
  2. Check and correct things like:
    • Frayed or damaged appliance cords, wiring, fuses or breakers.
    • Piles of rubbish, trash and yard debris.
    • Remove stacks of paper and magazines; take them to recycling centers.
    • Check for water leaks, especially near electrical appliances.
    • Check for good clearance between heating appliances and combustibles.

  3. Properly Store Flammable Liquids and Home Chemicals.
    • Make sure that gasoline and cleaning fluids are well marked and are out of the reach of children and pets. Store in a cool, dry place outside the house.
    • Clean up work areas. Put dangerous tools, adhesives, matches or other work items away and out of any child's reach.
    • Inventory all home and yard chemicals, paints and poisons. Store them according to their label. Properly dispose of any that are expired or leaking or that look bad but don't throw them in the trash or down the drain
    • Make sure that all chemicals are kept under lock and key and out of reach of children and pets.
  4. Plan Your Escape Now
    • Make sure that everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire. Make sure there are two ways out of every room and that a meeting place outside the house for the whole family has been established.
    • Practice the plan. Even the best plan is no good if it is not practiced.
A lot can be done to protect yourself, family and property. A little time spent on simple common sense prevention will do a lot to make your house a safer place. We are here to help!

Call 687-6083 or 678-6080 for more ways to protect yourself all year long.