Be a Hunterdon County Fire Safety Hero

Posted: October 4, 2019

Fire Preparedness Saves Lives

While October ushers in autumn’s blazing colors, the National Fire Prevention Association reminds families about the importance of home fire safety. October is National Fire Prevention Month, and Fire Prevention Week is October 6-12. Bringing fire safety awareness to the forefront, this year’s campaign theme, “Not every hero wears a cape. Plan and practice your escape,” highlights the need for vigilant fire awareness and careful home escape planning.

Create a Fire Safety Plan for Your Home

Fire alarms are essential safety features, but the typical family has just one to two minutes to escape after the alarm sounds. In darkness and smoke, it is easy to become confused or panicked. Be ready for emergencies by plotting your escape route in advance. Don’t forget these key steps:

Identify two ways out of each room.
Always keep exits clear of toys & trash.
Know the exact steps to take when a fire alarm goes off.
Designate a safe, recognizable meet-up place outside the house.
Teach kids to call 911 after escaping safely.

The NFPA recommends that families practice their escape plans twice per year. Visit the organization’s website for fun, downloadable kids’ activities and convenient checklists to help you evaluate your home’s fire safety.

Maglio Brings Your Home up to Current Electrical Code Requirements

Every year, many home fires are started by faulty electrical wiring, overloaded extension cords and electric space heaters. Maglio Electric and NFPA remind you to follow these electrical safety tips to prevent fires and protect your family.

Tip 1: Have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician to ensure it meets local and state codes.

Tip 2: Plug appliances, large and small, directly into receptacles. Avoid using power strips or extension cords and do not plug more than one appliance into a single outlet.

Tip 3: Keep electrical cords from running under carpets or across doorways, where they can be damaged or cause a tripping hazard.

Tip 4: Always install light bulbs with proper wattage for lamps and ceiling fixtures.

Tip 5: Upgrade wiring and receptacles to safely handle your home’s many appliances, tech gear and electronic devices.

Partner With Our Licensed NJ Electricians

Maglio Electric’s licensed NJ professionals evaluate home electrical systems and advise customers of code violations and unsafe conditions that may put your family at risk. Call 908.735.6218 to schedule a home electrical inspection or request a Maglio residential electrical upgrade online today. Make it a safe and productive National Fire Prevention Month, and spread the word on social media using hashtags like these: #FirePreventionMonth, #NFPA and #FireSafety.

For more tips about electrical and fire safety for kids and adults, visit the Maglio Electric Resource Center today!