Homeowners commonly overlook these garage dangers.
If you’re anything like us, your garage will be full to the brim of gardening tools, old furniture, sports equipment, paint cans, overflow artwork, bikes, and more. Even though you may use the garage as the ‘spare room’ of the house, it’s important that you don’t unknowingly create hazards. Commonly overlooked are garage dangers that leave homeowners struggling if left unresolved.
Clutter
It’s the task you’ve been avoiding for years – cleaning out the garage. To make it easier, separate items into categories (car supplies, lawn, holiday decorations, sports equipment, etc.) and store all similar items together. Once you’ve established your core groups of categories, donate unused or unwanted items to charity.
Fire Hazards
Combustible chemicals such as fertilizer, paint thinner, pesticides, and gasoline are commonly stored in the garage – and are all fire hazards. Always follow disposal instructions on product labels and get rid of old materials that are gathering dust or have expired. Better yet, keep a fire extinguisher on hand in case it all goes awry.
CO Fumes
In attached garages, fumes from vehicle exhaust can build up quickly and seep inside your home. Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, and unless you have an alarm, you won’t know it’s there. Remember that it’s never safe to leave a vehicle running while parked in the garage, even if the garage door is open!
Thieves
Garage doors provide entry points for burglars. Never leave your door open after you exit the house, and lock it immediately, even if you’re going back in later. Installing motion sensor lights above your garage door can help to deter a nighttime burglar.
Garage safety is easily accomplished with a few easy steps! Does your homeowners insurance need a review to ensure that your home and belongings are covered? Get started on a tailored homeowners insurance policy to suit your needs and budget by contacting Kurt Rolf Insurance Agency today, serving Minnesota, Wisconsin, Florida, South Dakota, and Arizona.
