Take time to prepare for fires, emergency evacuations

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (June 14, 2022) — As vegetation begins to dry out, it’s a good time to focus on fire defense.

Use this opportunity to remove all dead vegetation and combustible material from at least 30 feet from your home. This includes tree branches that might be growing above your roof or chimney.

Meanwhile, check indoors for frayed cords and wires. Clean the stove and oven to help prevent kitchen fires and be sure to have an operable fire extinguisher nearby. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for proper operation and keep all combustible materials, such as paint and gasoline, in their original containers.

Establish an emergency plan that includes understanding the best escape routes from your home. Determine a common meeting place in case of quick evacuation. Discuss this plan with everyone in the family and ensure young children know how to dial 911.

Stock your disaster supply kit with batteries, flashlights, canned food, bottled water, medicines, a battery-powered radio and first aid kit.

Finally, they are costly, but you may want to consider investing in a generator for peace of mind.

After all this talk about fires, don’t forget to focus on enjoying the family, sun and your yards.

Scott Denslow is the owner of Safe at Home Inspection Service. He is an InterNACHI and ASHI certified inspector who has 73+ five-star ratings on Yelp. ­Contact him at scott@safeathomellc.com. For more info visit www.safeathomellc.com.

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