As the seasons change and cooler temperatures settle in, insurance companies are uniquely positioned to guide their policyholders toward proactive fire and smoke prevention measures to minimize the potential for future damage claims.
What do candles, cookies, and chimneys have in common? Besides being cozy fall traditions, they each pose a fire risk to homes. Just like summer means more grill-related fires, fall and winter present increased risks of indoor fire and smoke-related damage. On average, fires cause 2,440 deaths, 11,170 injuries, and $7.4 billion in property losses annually. This blog will explore tips to safeguard homes and lives as they safely enjoy their fall traditions. No matter the preparation, property claims will arise. When they do, Primeco Claims Group will support you by ensuring claims are processed accurately and efficiently.
Key Fire Prevention Steps Insurance Companies Should Encourage:
The Scent Risk: Use Candles and Wax Warmers Safely
We love our homes to smell like pumpkin spice, apple cider, and sweater weather, but candles and wax warmers come with their own set of fire hazards. Remind homeowners to follow these tips:
• Don’t leave candles lit or wax warmers on in unoccupied rooms or while sleeping.
• Make sure pets can’t knock them over and keep them away from curtains and clothing.
• Immediately switch off warmers if bubbling or a funky smell develops, as this indicates it has reached an unsafe temperature.
Heater Safety: Prevent Furnace and Space Heater Fires
As temperatures drop, homeowners rely more on furnaces and space heaters, increasing the risk of fire incidents. Advise your policyholders to:
• Regularly change the air filter – If they have pets, live in a dusty areas, or suffer from allergies, change it more frequently.
• Maintain a minimum clearance of three feet around space heaters and never leave them unattended.
• Test smoke alarms and replace batteries to ensure they’re fully functional.
Outdoor Fire Risks: Manage Yard Debris
One fall tradition is watching kids jump into that freshly raked pile of leaves. However, dry leaves and overgrown vegetation are highly flammable and can quickly ignite if exposed to sparks or embers. Share these tips with homeowners:
• Rake and dispose of leaves regularly to prevent them from accumulating near the house.
• Store firewood at least 30 feet away from the home to reduce fuel for potential fires.
• Check for and clear flammable materials around outdoor fire pits or grills.
Kitchen Fires: Stay Vigilant During Holiday Cooking
Fall kicks off a season of family gatherings and feasts, making kitchens a hub of activity. However, this can also lead to an uptick in kitchen fires. Help policyholders stay safe by sharing these reminders:
• Never leave cooking unattended, especially when frying or grilling.
• Keep a fire extinguisher accessible in the kitchen and ensure everyone knows how to use it.
• Regularly clean stove hoods and ovens to remove grease buildup.
Fireplaces and Chimneys: Inspect and Clean Regularly
Fireplaces can be cozy and efficient heat sources, but without regular maintenance, they pose significant fire hazards. Encourage policyholders to:
• Inspect chimneys annually to identify and clear blockages.
• Ensure chimneys are free of creosote buildup, a leading cause of chimney fires.
• Clean fireplaces and chimneys as needed, depending on frequency of use.
• Check for cracks or other damage in the chimney structure that could allow smoke or fire to spread.
• Don’t forget to open the flue before starting a fire!
How Primeco Claims Group Supports Your Efforts
By proactively sharing these tips with policyholders, insurance companies can reduce the volume of preventable claims. However, even with the best maintenance efforts, damage may still occur. That’s where Primeco Claims Group steps in. We offer comprehensive claims-handling services to help you manage your workload efficiently, ensuring that every claim is processed promptly and accurately.
Our experienced adjusters are ready to assist with any volume of claims that may come in as the fall and winter seasons progress. Contact our team or submit a claim here. We look forward to working together for you and your client’s best interest.
(844) 601-4121
