When looking to organize and improve how you use your garage space is it very important that you consider every aspect of the garage for health and safety. This includes fire damage. Limiting the chances of a fire starting in your garage can be done quite easily though just making a few small thoughtful tweaks to how you have set up the space. Here are some top tips that are vital to ensuring that you have done everything in your power to prevent a fire in your garage.
Do you do any work on your car while it is in the garage including welding or the use of any flammable solutions such as oils, gas, paint thinner? If so, you would do well to seriously consider how these are liquids are stored and also how well ventilated is your garage? Gas vapor can become very dangerous in a confined space so if possible to not work with the garage door closed.
Does the garage have a door to the attic section of the house? If so you should ensure that this is closed at all times when not in use and that a good seal is formed over this access point.
The ceiling and the walls of the garage need to be made and insulated with suitable materials that they are fire barriers. This may require removal and re-installation of the insulation if you are looking to fully protect this space from any potential fire damage.
Keeping the garage clean of all things that could catch fire might seem like a no brainer but garages do get full of potentially flammable items quite easily. By taking a look around your garage with this lense you may see more flammable items than you expect. For example, any loose cloths or papers are create the ideal conditions for a fire to spread.
By not overloading plug sockets you can avoid one of the most common initial causes of garage fires. While looking at your power outlets in your garage, check to see if there are any wires that are hazardous to walk near. If these are pulled out with enough force they can cause a spark which could lead to a fire.
If you can access the main section of the house from your garage, you should make sure that you don’t have any problems accessing the door in a hurry and that nothing should be blocking it. Also the door should be a fire door that closes automatically. Once you have gone to the trouble and expense of having a fireproof door installed it is best to not then install a pet door to the garage. This will negate any benefit you have to the higher quality door.
All flammable liquids that are stored in the garage should be carefully stored in containers that seal completely and fully. You should make a point of labelling them clearly and in large lettering. Never mix liquids that you are unsure of and keep these containers as far as possible away from any source of electricity or flame.
Propane tanks are designed to be stored outside and should never be placed inside a garage or home. They are built to operate in most weather conditions. If your area is about to experience severe weather then it is best to first contact the supplier of the tank and ask for the prefered storage method during this time.
Once you have done an overhaul and inspection of your garage, the next step is to ensure that your vigilance is ongoing and that you constantly monitor the fire safety level of your home.