Your home should be safe space — a place where you feel comfortable and secure. But ensuring peace of mind goes beyond locking your doors and windows at night. Hazards such as fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and electrical malfunctions can pose serious risks.

Thankfully, with just a few simple precautions you can significantly reduce these dangers and help keep your loved ones, and property, safe.

1. Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are a crucial component of home safety, giving you an early warning in case of fire. A working smoke detector can literally mean the difference between life and death. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 60% of home fire deaths occur in properties without working smoke alarms. 

To ensure your alarm is working correctly, be sure to:

• Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
• Test them regularly. While many people have smoke alarms, 61% admitted to testing them less often than recommended. Batteries should be changed twice per year, during the fall and spring when clocks are adjusted. You should also check batteries monthly by pressing the test button.
• Replace as needed. Even if they seem fine, smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years to ensure reliability.

2. Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Since it’s impossible to identify leaks without the proper equipment, CO detectors are essential for any home with gas appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages.

Here’s what homeowners should keep in mind:

• Install CO detectors near bedrooms and on every level of your home.
• Like smoke alarms, they should be tested frequently and replaced as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Like smoke alarms, batteries should be changed twice per year, during the fall and spring when clocks are adjusted.
• Headaches, dizziness, and nausea can be signs of CO poisoning. If your detector goes off, leave the house immediately and call emergency services.

3. Fire Extinguisher(s)

A fire extinguisher is an essential tool that can help prevent a minor fire from turning into a catastrophe. However, having one isn’t enough — you need to know how to use it:

• Store extinguishers in key locations like the kitchen and garage. If you live in an apartment, check to see where the nearest communal extinguisher is located, or secure your own.
• Remember the PASS method. Pull the pin. Aim the nozzle at the base of fire. Squeeze the handle. Sweep side to side. Fire extinguishers should be used if:
  • The fire is small.
  • The extinguisher is compatible with the type of fire.
  • You can safely evacuate the area.
• Fire extinguishers need periodic maintenance. Ensure the pressure gauge is in the green zone and replace immediately once expired.
• After using a fire extinguisher, keep space from the fire source in case it reignites. If the extinguisher is empty and the fire is still burning, evacuate the area immediately.

4. Heated Blankets

Heated blankets are a wonderful way to stay cozy during colder months, but improper use can pose fire and electrical hazards.

To enjoy your blanket safely:

• Check for frayed wires, burns, or other signs of wear. If you find damage, discard immediately.
• Use the blanket to warm your bed, then turn it off and unplug it before you go to sleep. Heated blankets should never be left on overnight.
• Instead of folding the blanket sharply, roll or store flat to avoid damaging internal wires. Never tuck a heated blanket around a mattress.
• Never use a heated blanket on a waterbed, pull out sofa, recliner, or hospital-style bed.
• Never use a heated blanket while wet or after applying lotions or skin creams that can conduct electricity.
• Never use a heated blanket and a heated mattress pad at the same time due to risk of overheating.
• Consult with your doctor if you have diabetes, poor circulation, other sensitivities, or are pregnant.
• Don't allow pets near your blanket. Cat or dog claws can cause rips and tears, which may expose the blanket’s electric wiring and create shock and fire hazards.
• Even if they appear in good shape, replace heated blankets every 10 years for maximum safety.
• To ensure your heated blanket hasn’t been recalled, check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.

5. Space Heaters

Space heaters are a convenient way to supplement your home’s heating, but they must be used carefully to prevent fires. The CPSC estimates that space heaters — both fixed and portable — are linked to nearly 22,000 residential fires annually, leading to around 300 deaths.

Be sure to:

• Maintain at least three feet of space around the heater, keeping it away from furniture, curtains, and bedding.
• Avoid placing heaters on carpets or other flammable materials and never use them near water.
• Always plug space heaters directly into an outlet. Extension cords can overheat and pose a fire risk.
• Turn off after use. Never leave a space heater running when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Never use gas stoves, ovens, portable propane space heaters, or generators for indoor heating.
• Create a three-foot “kid-free zone” around space heaters. Ensure kids and pets cannot touch or tip over the heater.
• Make sure smoke and CO detectors are installed and functioning properly.
• In case of fire, exit immediately and call 911.

If you have questions about safe heating practices, consult your local fire department or utility provider.

By taking a few simple precautions and staying aware of potential hazards, you can create a secure, comfortable living space for yourself and your loved ones.

Peace of Mind with AltaMed

Health and safety go beyond what’s in your home — it begins with your mind and body. AltaMed is here to help you grow healthy with essential checkups, screenings, dental care, pharmacy services, and more. Is your wellness on track? Get started online or call (888) 499-9303.