Is Your Garage A Fire Risk?

​We are well aware of the potential for destruction a fire in our home could cause, that is why we take the necessary precautions such as installing carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors around the house.  One area of the home we might not think so much about, though, is the garage and its potential for fire.
 
Perhaps more so than other areas of the house, the garage has a high potential for fire.  Why do we say that? Because it’s the area we are more likely to store flammable liquids such as gas cans, cleaning supplies, paint cans and other decorating items.  Then there is gardening equipment and car parts etc.  its clear to see the need for extra caution when it comes to fire prevention in our garage.
 
What should you do?

• There are some basic steps to take that will lower the risk of a fire starting and spreading in your garage.  As has been mentioned earlier, make sure the garage has smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms fitted.  Make sure you check them monthly to see if they are working properly.

• Any flammable items you keep in the garage should be safely stored and clearly labelled.

• When doing work in your garage, be sure to clean up any oil spills etc. and do not leave garbage lying around on the floor.  Keep the garage door open when working to prevent any harmful fumes from building up.

• Care should be taken when a garage connects to the house as harmful fumes could enter through broken seals or cracks in the connecting door.  Have a periodic check of the door and frame and look for signs of wear and tear.

• If you are worried about whether your garage could be a potential hazard, have a certified home inspector perform an inspection of it.  They will note any areas you should be concerned about.

 
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you would like advice on safety for your garage or if you would like to schedule and inspection.