When you purchase a new home the first things you begin thinking about are paint colors, new furniture, and ways to make your new home look beautiful. And while beautifying your home is certainly exciting, safety in the home is something that is critical. It should be on the minds of every homeowner, especially when they are moving into a new home. It’s important to take the proper steps to make sure your home is safe in case of an emergency. This is something that can’t wait until tomorrow, so make sure your home has these important safety items.

Smoke Detectors

Studies have shown that you are four times more likely to perish in a fire in the home if you don’t have working smoke detectors. This is one of the most important safety items that should be in every home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, including the basement. They should also be installed inside every bedroom and outside each sleeping area. Smoke detectors should also be checked every 3 months and the batteries should be replaced to make sure they are always in working order.

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Carbon monoxide is often referred to as the “silent killer”  because this gas is colorless, odorless, and tasteless which makes it virtually undetectable. At a minimum, it is recommended that every home have at least one carbon monoxide detector on each floor and ideally outside of each sleeping area.

Fire Extinguisher

When it comes to fire safety, smoke alarms should be your first line of defense, but every home should also have one or more fire extinguishers as well. It is recommended to at least keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen since this is the most common cause for household fires. They can help you contain small, containable fires in the home and prevent excess damage to the home.

First Aid Kit

Having a first aid kit is essential for every home. You never know when an accident may occur so you need to be prepared. A well-stocked first aid kit can help you respond quickly and effectively for many common injuries and emergencies. A few basic supplies that should be in your first-aid kit include:

-Bandages

-Adhesive Tape

-Roller gauze

-disposable sterile gloves

-Alcohol-free cleansing wipes

-scissors

-tweezers

-antibiotic ointment

-antiseptic solution

-hydrocortisone cream

Fire Escape Ladder

In addition to smoke detectors and an evacuation plan, it is important for multi-level homes to have an emergency fire escape ladder to provide an additional escape route. Families should practice using the ladder and show children how to use it properly. Should the need arise, this can provide an escape for families on a second level of their home.