Annual spring cleaning is vital to home safety

  • Published
  • 95th Civil Engineer and Transportation Directorate
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Spring cleaning is an annual ritual for many people. Just as the first bloom of spring ushers in a new beginning for nature, our spring cleaning habits signify a fresh start for us after the long winter months. 

Spring cleaning is the ideal time to check homes and yards for dangerous materials and unsafe conditions, and spend a little time protecting family members and property. 

Start by taking a few minutes to plan your safety clean-up day. Check each room in the house including the attic, basement, garage, yard and storage shed. 

Plan to do several different things including:
  • Remove all hazardous materials
  • Fix frayed or damaged appliance cords, wiring, fuses or breakers
  • Take stacks of papers and magazines to recycling centers
  • Check for water leaks, especially near electrical appliances
  • Check for clearance between heating appliances and combustibles
  • Store flammable liquids and chemicals properly
  • Mark gasoline and cleaning fluids with proper labels. Store in a cool, dry place outside the house and out of children's and pets' reach
  • Clean working areas. Place dangerous tools, adhesives, matches or other work items away and out of any child's reach
  • Store home and yard chemicals, paints and poisons according to their label. Dispose of any expired or leaked chemical containers, and don't throw in trash or down the drain
  • Keep chemical containers out of reach of children and pets
  • Check fire protection and safety equipment
  • Check smoke detector and fire extinguishers
  • Make sure all doors and windows open easily for fast escapes
  • Make sure street numbers are posted properly and visible
  • Have a working flashlight and battery-powered radio for the approaching storm season
  • Plan a fast escape route
  • Make sure family members know what to do in the event of a fire
  • Practice executing plans for fire emergency situations
Everyone can do a lot to protect themselves, their family and property. A little time spent on simple common- sense prevention will do a lot to make the home a safer place. 

For more information, call the Edwards Fire Department at 277-3643 or 277-3124.