Moving into a new home is the perfect time to think about safety. Before long, you’ll be worried about furniture placements and your busy schedule. But considering everything from smoke alarms to leak detection at this early stage will go a long way in helping protect your family from the unexpected.
Know Which Monitors Go Where
The right placement makes all the difference for devices like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices need to be installed where they can properly detect a threat and alert the household.
For example, smoke alarms should be placed inside each bedroom, the kitchen, and on every level of the house. Similarly, carbon monoxide detectors should be placed on each level of the home and near sleeping areas. Interconnected alarms further ensure your family’s safety.
Add Water and Air Quality Protection
It’s also a good idea to think about possible water and air quality issues. For example, placing leak sensors near the hot water heater, household sinks, or sump pump, as well as in places like the mechanical room, laundry area, or basement can help you catch water issues early on.
Ohio homeowners should also consider radon testing, especially for the basement. Radon is an invisible gas that can’t be seen or smelled, but can be harmful to human health over time. Testing for radon levels can help you develop a radon removal plan based on your property’s needs.
Keep the Right Safety Accessories Handy
Aside from monitors you’ll install in your home, you should also make sure safety accessories are readily accessible. Fire extinguishers should be easy to access in higher-risk areas like the kitchen, garage, or mechanical rooms. It’s also a good idea to have a designated spot for basic emergency supplies such as a weather radio, flashlight, and first-aid kit.
Make sure the entire family knows where to locate these items, as well as where to go if you need to leave the house during an emergency. A strong home safety plan is much more than a checklist. By combining the right alarms and monitors with practical safety accessories and planning, you can feel confident about your family’s preparedness from day one.