How to Prevent Fires in Your Garage
Most homeowners use their garage to store a wide variety of belongings. Unfortunately this comes with the risk of filling up your garage with several fire hazards. For your own safety and the protection of your belongings, it’s important to ensure that you do everything you can to limit the risk of a garage fire.
Here are some things to consider to ensure that your garage is as secure as possible from any potential fire.
Don’t store combustible products
It goes without saying but the first thing to do is to move or get rid of any highly combustible substances. This is especially important in the garage which could include several heat sources such as a dryer, washing machine, cars, and even water heaters.
These flammable household items can include:
- Gas cans
- Motor oil
- Antifreeze
- Herbicides
- Propane
- Paints
- Aerosol spray cans
- Lighter fluid
- WD-40
There is also the risk of motor oil as a result of storing cars in your garage. Cleaning it up immediately or regularly will do the trick to ensure that it remains safe. By keeping your garage free of these substances, you will be able to drastically reduce the risk of a fire starting.
Be safe around outlets
Incorrectly plugged in electronics or faulty equipment could cause a spark which can quickly lead to a fire in your home. Even leaving a spare refrigerator or tool plugged in could lead to a fire hazard.
By simply disconnecting the electrical outlets when not in use you can easily prevent most issues. This comes with the added benefit of saving electricity and reducing your energy bills.]
Avoid using extension cords
Being safe around outlets is important, and this couldn’t be more true when using electrical cords. Extension cords can become worn or short-circuit after heavy use, especially when they are stored in crowded garages.
If you have appliances in your garage, opt for shorter cords that plug directly into the wall. If an appliance cannot be used without an extension cord, be sure to unplug it and store the cord away after use.
Make Sure Your Garage Has a Strong Fire Rating
If you regularly store flammable materials in your garage or work in your garage, it’s essential to make sure that your garage door has a strong fire rating. This can often include a garage door with a fire-proof glass or be as simple as replacing a worn down fence door with a more resistant material like steel.
While a fire-proof garage door is not required in most cases, it is worth considering for those who have a large amount of flammable material or liquids stored away.
Install a Smoke Detector
Finally, you’ll want to be sure to install a smoke detector in or nearby your garage if you haven’t already. You might have the most secure garage but all it takes is a small spark to cause several thousands of dollars of damage.
By installing a smoke detector you’ll be able to know immediately when a fire has started. This will provide extra time to get your family to safety and secure any valuables you might have to reduce the extent of the damage.
Keep your life and garage safe
Storing your vehicle, power tools, or other electrical equipment can increase the risk of a fire in your garage. However, by following this advice you can significantly decrease the chances of a fire in your garage from happening.
If you are looking to improve the appearance of your home it’s essential to contact a professional garage door provider such as Hill Country Overhead Door. We have a wide selection of options that will add the perfect look to your home with several fire-proof selections. Contact us today and improve your home’s look!