Essential Home Safety Precautions for Massachusetts Homeowners

Every home should contain certain systems for basic home safety. Here’s a list of what those items are. If you do not have these in your home, it’s never to late to add them!

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are required by Massachusetts law, but that doesn’t mean that all homes actually have them. Installing properly working smoke detectors is one of the most essential home safety precautions. Take a look around your home to confirm that you have detectors in all of the proper locations. Click here for a summary of what those locations are and what types of detectors are required.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

CO detectors are also required by law. Carbon monoxide is often more dangerous than smoke since it gives no warning signs; it is colorless and odorless. Be aware of the dangers and of the common warning signs. CO detectors should be installed in all levels of your home and outside of bedroom doors.

Purchase Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are not required by law in residential homes, but we consider them to be a necessity. They can help address small fires an prevent them from becoming a larger issue. Keep fire extinguishers in convenient locations, near where you are most likely to need them (such as in the kitchen).

Secure Prescription Drugs & Household Cleaners

If you have children or pets in your home, take measures to keep prescription and other drugs out of reach. Consider placing them on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet. This will avoid accidental poisoning, which is a common safety risk inside of homes. The same goes for household cleaners, which often contain harsh and poisonous chemicals.

More Essential Home Safety Precautions for Massachusetts Homeowners

With advancements in technology, there are many additional safety features that you can add to your home, such as security alarms, video monitoring systems, water/moisture alerts, and more. The above list is what we consider the basic necessities, but you can certainly go well beyond this list depending on your desire and budget. It’s also important to have good homeowner’s insurance coverage to cover you against any damages to your home and belongings.