What Does Home Safety Look Like?

Sunday, July 22, 2018

What Does Home Safety Look Like?

Your home, more than anywhere else, should be a safe place for you and your family. That’s why it’s so important to have a home inspection before buying a house, or before selling your home to another family. A home inspector will be able to point out any flaws in the structure or operation of the home that might affect the price of the home. But what exactly does home safety look like? Here are some factors you want to consider beyond what the home inspector might review.

Child Proofing

Not everyone has small children, but for those that do, child proofing is a must. Things that might seem harmless to you can be a serious threat for an infant. For instance, loose window cords could strangle a baby and stairs could spell disaster. Babies are curious and might think it looks fun to stick their fingers in a power outlet. Safety gates, outlet covers, and cordless blinds are good ideas to have when you have a small child. Any hazardous materials should be kept on a high shelf out of their reach, and cabinets should have childproof locks on them.

Fire Proofing

There should be smoke alarms in working order on every floor of the house as well as outside of bedrooms. Once a month, make sure these smoke alarms are in working order. It’s also important for you to know your escape route in the event that a fire does happen. What’s the safest exit? Where should you meet once everyone is out? Go over this plan at least twice a year, practicing it so you can visualize the practicality. If you live in a two-story home, you’ll also want to have a rescue ladder or fire escape, so those who are trapped upstairs and blocked off can still get out. Always use caution with space heaters, be on the lookout for frayed wires and other hazards to avoid fires in the first place.

Burglar Proofing

A home security system is a great way to keep out burglars. Many alarm systems will also alert the police that someone tried to break into your home, but the sound of the alarm itself is enough to deter most home invasions. Because noise can throw off any burglar, a dog might also be a good investment. Make sure your windows and doors are locked at the end of the night, and keep trees and bushes trimmed so that your yard is more visible and intruders have fewer places to hide. Motion sensor lights or timed lights for your home’s exterior can also help to burglar proof the home.

All of these tips don’t replace the usefulness of a home inspection but should supplement your findings from that home inspection. Once you find your dream home, after all, you want to make sure it’s protected, along with everyone who lives there. Talk to an experienced realtor in College Station today about scheduling a home inspection and other things you can do to ensure the home stays safe.