Home Safety Resources (10)

Home Security Checklist
This site by the Sacramento County, California Sheriff gives you an excellent checklist for securing your home, but most importantly, to make you aware of steps you can take to discourage a burglar from targeting your home in the first place. It is a literal checklist with Yes and No checkboxes. Every No checkbox is an item you should probably put down on a priority list to take some action. The checklist is divided into the following categories to make it easier for you to draw up a plan of action: Exterior Doors, Garage and Sliding Door, Protecting Windows, Outdoor Security, Security When Away from Home, and Outdoor Valuables and Personal Property. Taking Outdoor Security as an example, the items are: shrubs and bushes are trimmed to there's no place to hide; no dark areas around the house, garage or yard where prowlers can hide; every outside door has a bright working light to illuminate visitors; floodlights are used appropriates; lights are on in the evening whether someone is home or not and motion-sensitive lighting is installed; and finally, the house number is clearly displayed so police and emergency vehicles can quickly find you.

Safety Advice for Installing a Firepit or Chiminea on Your Deck
You can install a firepit or chiminea on your deck safely. Get the advice you need to do so by reading this informative article. It starts with the basics, like checking with your local municipality to familiarize yourself with local codes. The article also reminds new fire pit or chiminea owners to read the manual thoroughly before operating it for the first time. Safety reminders about not leaving the backyard firepit unattended and keeping the area clutter-free are listed here.

Mobile Home Safety
Tips for mobile home safety. A mobile home owner must be even more vigilant against fires than a house owner. That's because when mobile homes catch on fire--they tend to be total losses due to the smaller nature of the structure. To guard against fires, mobile home owners should have their furnaces inspected at least once a year. You should also clean the blower and filters often to prevent overheating. Keep the furnace area clear of clutter--don't use it as a storage area. And never use your furnace as a clothes dryer. Mobile home owners should avoid using space heaters if at all possible. Keep space heaters away from drapes, clothing, bedding and other places they might come into contact with flammable materials. Also equip your mobile home with fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, and keep your mobile home clearly marked so emergency personnel can find it in case of an emergency.

Holiday Safety, Children's Safety, Seniors Safety
Homestore provides articles about keeping apartments secure, home security information, tips for keeping your home safe while you are away, and a section on keeping senior citizens safe. Site includes information on holiday safety, children's safety, safety products and do-it-yourself home security features. A crisis kit checklist is also provided, as are tips for children's safety, including going over phone numbers with children, creating a safety game, and viewing your home from a child's perspective to identify potential interests and hazards.