Homeowners know that fires cause considerable damage. We previously offered six ways that you can reduce the risk of fire to your home. These included: making improvements to your roof, sealing off openings, pruning branches, mowing the lawn, picking up debris and lightening trees and other landscaping. 

Now we will explore four other steps you can take to reduce the risk of fire. These suggestions are compiled from the Insurance Bureau of Canada:

1. Install and check smoke detectors: Ensure that your smoke detectors are working properly by removing dust, checking batteries, testing the detectors on a regular basis and replacing them every 10 years.

2. Create an emergency preparedness plan for your family: One very important measure you can take is to develop an emergency evacuation plan and practice it several times. Make sure that all members are prepared in the event of a fire or other emergency. 

3. Monitor heated appliances and decor: If you use portable heaters, straighteners or a range of other heated appliances, use and store these in a safe and responsible manner. After using your dryer, remove lint. Don't leave clothing irons, straightening irons or candles unattended.

4. Store your flammable materials safely: Finally, reduce possible fires by storing flammable materials safely, and don't ignite gasoline, solvents, waste and other substances any closer than 10 meters from your home.

For answers to all of your home insurance needs, including advice on reducing fire risk, contact the experts at Fundy Mutual. One of our experienced home insurance brokers will be happy to help you.