Browning Home Inspections

HomeCare Tips

 and Tid-Bits

When it comes to decorations, there are a few things we should keep in mind about fire safety.

• Be careful not to place hot holiday decorations near flammable items.
• Don't allow pets to chew on any electric cords and don't let them get near candles. 
• If burning candles, don't leave them unattended and be sure to place them in an area with plenty of space above and around it.  Try to avoid  areas where they could be knocked over or brushed against.
• Watch out for extension cord use in high-traffic areas where they can be stepped on or tripped over.  Covering them with a rug is not a good solution.

Inspector John took the picture below at one of his  inspections of an attic with fire damage.

Be sure there is appropriate lighting for those dark areas.  If necessary, let guests know where oddly placed light switches are.  Find-a-Light manufactured by Reflect & Glow has great products or go to the toy department and pick up some glow-in-the-dark stickers.

It would be lovely to have guests walk into our homes and have them welcomed with beautiful fragrences. 

These days it seems this is achieved with the latest air fragrance products.  The next time you decide to go this route, keep in mind that we do not fully understand the long-term affects of these chemicals on the human body.  Some mainstream products have already proven to be harmful. 

www.preventcancer.com has a list of what household products & air freshners should be avoided and what are safe alternatives.

www.eartheasy.com has formulas for homemade substitutions using baking soda, vinegar, and other non-toxic products.  This website, also, offers for non-toxic homecleaning products for purchase.