Families nationwide have been hunkered down for months, and Fire Prevention Month is a timely reminder that preparation can make all the difference. Lowe’s has teamed up with First Alert and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to spotlight the importance of having a plan and the right products on hand to help.
"It’s critical for homeowners to recognize where potential hazards exist and then understand what they can do to help protect what matters most," said Vhaly Murry, Lowe's Fire Safety Project Manager and former firefighter. "From fire extinguishers to carbon monoxide (CO) detectors and more, we’re proud to carry the most trusted brands and support fire stations with supplies to help make their job easier.”
As homeowners create a fire safety plan, focus on these areas:
The Kitchen
Pandemic cooking has increased the risk of home fires this year and the number one cause of residential fires in the U.S. is unattended cooking according to the NFPA. It’s important to have a fire extinguishing device within reach like the First Alert Kitchen5, a lightweight kitchen fire extinguisher that can be mounted in your kitchen or easily stored.
Worried you won’t know how to use a fire extinguisher? Remember the acronym P.A.S.S. (P: Pull the pin; A: Aim the nozzle, low at the base of the fire; S: Squeeze the Trigger; S: Sweep from side to side).
Bedroom & Living Areas
Alarms provide an early warning in the event of a smoke or carbon monoxide emergency and should be installed in each bedroom, on every level. First Alert’s PRC710V is a 10-Year Sealed Battery Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector with voice and location technology to help protect against smoke and carbon monoxide. Once installed, remember to test alarms regularly and replace the batteries at least every six months.
Nest offers a Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector. This alarm is Underwriters Laboratory listed for meeting independently tested safety requirements and announces the location of danger, including smartphone alerts and battery status updates to protect your home while you’re away.
Laundry Room
Carbon monoxide can be produced from any fuel burning device, including the dryer. First Alert’s CO605 is a plug-in carbon monoxide alarm with battery backup. Simply plug it in to a standard electrical socket. Don’t forget to change and inspect dryer vents on an annual basis as lint is an added risk.
Outdoors
Fire departments respond to more than 10,000 home fires each year involving grills or barbeques. EZ Fire Spray easily fits into grill storage or around the campfire. It features a familiar lightweight spray-can design and is easy to clean up. In the yard, be sure to cut debris away from the house.
Click here for a full list of Lowe’s fire safety tips and products.
On Saturday, Oct. 10, Lowe’s will offer a free, wooden fire truck kit available for pickup as part of DIY kids’ workshops. To learn more and register for a kit, visit www.lowesdiy.com. In addition, Lowe’s will deliver buckets of supplies to fire stations nationwide, including supplies such as chainsaw sharpening kits, flashlights and batteries.
