House fires across the U.S. in 2013 caused nearly $7 billion in damage, as well as inconveniences that are too broad to measure. While there are many reasons that you don't want to have a fire in your home, it's important to also think about how a fire will elevate your home insurance premium. This means that a simple mistake or oversight can cause you money each month for years to come. Having an automated home system with fire alarms and even sprinklers can be an effective way to reduce the risk of serious fires, but there are many other tactics you can adopt to prevent fires and avoid an increase in your home insurance premium.
Have Your Dryer Vents Professionally Cleaned Regularly
Dryer vents that are consistently clogged with lint can dramatically increase the risk of a fire in your home. You can take action to lessen this concern by having the vents professionally cleaned regularly. Generally, you should have the vents cleaned about twice per year, although the technician will be able to tell you if the job needs attention more frequently -- this can be the case if you have a large family and you're constantly using the dryer.
Hire Professionals For Electrical Work
It might save a bit of money if you perform electrical work on your own, but doing so improperly might increase the risk of an electrical fire. It's always a smart idea to hire an electrical contractor to handle jobs such as installing light fixtures and replacing old wall switches or outlets.
Don't Use Candles If You Own Pets
There's no disputing the visual appeal of candles, but they can quickly turn into a fire if you have pets in your home. A cat or dog can easily bump into a candle and ignite a blaze. Many pets might be curious about burning candles, especially if they're scented. Not only do you not want one of your pets to get burned, but you also don't want this serious fire risk.
Unplug Electrical Components When They're Not In Use
Even when they're not in use, many electrical components in your home are drawing power and heating up. If one of these items has a flaw, it could quickly ignite and lead to a fire -- which could easily get out of control, especially if you're not at home. Take the time to unplug devices when they're not being used. The added benefit of unplugging your devices is that it can save money on your electrical bill.
For more information about ways to lower your insurance premium, contact Holt Insurance Services or a similar company.
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