The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has recorded over 17,000 fire cases in 2015, with the summer season having its fair share of incidents. Reports show that the dry period of March to June holds a high record of fire incidents nationwide.
As the summer season begins, everyone is enjoined to participate in yet another country-wide move to eliminate fire hazards in your properties. The BFP reports that the main causes of fire were faulty electrical connections, unsupervised open flame, and lighted cigarette butts, made more lethal by the presence of dry material and the hot weather.
Malayan Insurance, the country’s leading non-life insurer, has identified these fire hazard risks and how to avoid them.
When cooking, do not leave the kitchen unattended. Keep fabrics and flammable objects away from stove tops. Also, enforce a three-foot child-free zone around stoves or any heating devices.
In case fire breaks out while frying, avoid worsening the flames by quickly covering the pan with a damp cloth instead of dousing it with water.
In the event of power outages and you use lighted candles, ensure that they are safely positioned in a holder, or in the middle of a container partially filled with water. Place them away from children, pets, table cloths, and curtains, too. Remember to put them out before sleeping.
Keep appliances like electric fans clean and make sure they are defect-free. Fix faulty appliances immediately.
Install smoke detectors and automatic sprinklers, or keep fire extinguishers in your properties. Always be prepared with an emergency exit plan as well.
Further, check if your home insurance policies cover damages resulting from fire. Malayan Insurance offers Home Protect Plus, a complete home insurance package that includes protection against damages to both the structure and valuable contents in the event of fire.
This summer season, secure your families and properties by staying wise and cautious. For more details about Malayan’s Home Protect Plus, log onto www.malayan.com.
