Choose and Use Smoke Alarms Wisely

October is National Fire Safety Month, a good time to remember how smoke alarms can protect you. Use the following tips to make sure you have what you need:

• Look for the "UL" logo. Underwriters Laboratories provides product safety testing and certification. The UL symbol on the packaging means the alarm meets nationally recognized standards.
• Don't cut corners. Experts recommend having alarms on each floor of your home and posting them near sleeping areas.
• Check the batteries monthly. Smoke alarms most often fail because of missing, dead or disconnected batteries. Testing batteries is generally as simple as pushing a button and listening to hear the beep.

Fix Faulty Wiring

Most electrical fires are the result of faulty electrical outlets, old wiring and problems with cords, receptacles and switches, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. You can lessen the chances of an electrical fire with a few prudent precautions:

• Routinely check appliances and wiring, looking for anything that appears frayed or damaged.
• Replace old or damaged electrical cords.
• Don't overload extension cords by plugging in appliances that draw a total of more watts than the rating of the cord.
• If light switches flicker or feel hot, stop using them immediately and have them replaced or serviced by a professional.
• Buy appliances and electrical supplies that have been tested by a nationally known laboratory, such as UL.

Extension Cord Safety: What You Might Not Know About Choosing a Cord. (UL)

Prepare for Cold Weather

Leaving home for the holidays or heading south for the winter? Heed these to-do’s from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety:

• Turn the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees so pipes don't freeze.
• Drain your water system, and turn off the main water source to prevent serious damage from a buildup of pressure if water freezes in your pipes.
• Cut off the water supply to your washing machine, ice maker, toilets and sinks to stave off flooding from ruptured hoses. Even a small crack can spew hundreds of gallons of water a day, ruining floors, furniture and mementos.
• Unplug electrical appliances, such as the coffee maker, microwave, television and computer. If a power outage occurs while you're gone, this will prevent damage to appliances once power is restored.
• Check that the sump pump is working to prevent flooding from melting snow or heavy rain.
• Install a home security system to monitor break-ins, fire, smoke or carbon monoxide. Also, provide the security company with the name of an emergency contact.

Monthly Reminder

Don't wait for a blizzard to prepare your snow-removal supplies. Make sure snow shovels are in good condition and easily accessible. Perform routine maintenance on your snow blower so it's ready for action. Stock up on rock salt and sand, if needed in your area.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, Institute for Business & Home Safety, Insurance Information Institute