Fire is one of the most dangerous risks in any residential setting. This is particularly true when you live in an apartment with other families living in close proximity. The more people there are in one area, the greater the risk is for a fire starting. We’ve gathered 3 tips that will help you prevent fires and keep yourself and your family safe if there is a fire in your apartment.

Check Smoke Detectors

Having a working smoke detector is one of the most important fire safety tips for apartment renters and homeowners alike. In many major fires, you and your family will have only a short window of time to get out safely. A working smoke detector can be the difference between life and death. You should check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly and replace the batteries in them at least once or twice each year. You should also keep an eye on smoke detectors located in the hallways and around other areas of your apartment building to ensure they are working properly. If you notice detectors around the building beeping, notify your apartment’s community management so they can address it.

Be Aware Of Fire Hazards

Using caution to prevent fires from occurring is always important. Some risks are obvious such as an open flame, while other risks are less obvious. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Always use caution when cooking. Watch pots and pans on the stove closely as food can boil over and start a fire. Keep flammable items such as loose-fitting clothing and towels away from the stove. Remember that the oven is a fire hazard too so keep a watchful eye when using the oven as well.
  • Keep candles away from curtains and other flammable items and always place candles on a firm, flat surface. Never leave a candle burning unattended.
  • If you are a smoker, do not smoke in bed, on the couch, or in chairs made of fabric that is easily flammable. Make sure you are not going to fall asleep while smoking. Keep all lighters and matches up and out of the reach of children.
  • Do not overload electrical outlets by using too many extension cords and use surge protectors to protect outlets.
  • Clean dryer lint traps before and after each load. Do not ever overload washing machines, dryers, or a dishwasher.
Have And Practice Your Fire Safety Plan  

Sometimes despite our best precautions fires still happen. Every family should have a fire emergency safety plan, and every member of your family should know your plan and practice it regularly. Being prepared in the event of a fire is the best way to ensure your family doesn’t panic and gets out safely. Your family will need to have a plan for how each member of the family will get out, where family members will meet once outside, and know what to do if part of their plan is blocked by smoke and fire. If your apartment building already has established fire evacuation procedures, make sure you read and know these procedures. You also should know where manual fire alarms are located throughout your apartment building so you can activate one to alert other residents of the building if needed.

Make Sure You Are Protected

Contact your licensed insurance broker at Magruder Insurance to ensure you are properly covered on your renters insurance. Many renters insurance policies are built to protect the value of the building, but do not include adequate coverage for a tenants belongings. The insurance professionals at Magruder Insurance can help. Call us at 813-654-3100 or contact us online today!