• Your residence undoubtedly represents where your heart lies, and you are committed to going to great lengths to safeguard it and its inhabitants, your beloved family members, from any form of threat. Accidents such as fire outbreaks can take place unexpectedly and will often leave you with significantly less time to respond than you might anticipate. Whether due to a gas leak or the careless use of lit cigars, a fire in the house can obliterate everything in an instant. Although the Standard Fire and Special Perils Policy from HDFC ERGO can provide substantial financial assistance during such critical situations, it is wiser to prepare in advance rather than regret afterward.

Here are several recommendations to ensure safety in the event of a fire outbreak or to prevent one:

1. Install Smoke Detectors –
   Smoke detectors prove incredibly useful in the event of a fire. Ideally, smoke detectors should be placed in every corner of your home and tested for functionality each month. Occasionally, fire alarms may fail to emit a warning beep due to battery depletion, so it is advisable to check them monthly and replace the batteries at least once every six months. Keep in mind that smoke alarms have been shown to decrease the risk of fire-related fatalities by nearly 50 percent.
   
2. Monitor your appliances –
   Fire outbreaks frequently originate from heaters, gas sources, chimneys, grills, and fireplaces. To ensure these appliances are in optimal working condition and free from malfunctions, it is essential to have them serviced at least once per year. Remember to turn off and unplug them immediately after use to prevent any potential short circuits or accidental overheating.
   
3. Close bedroom doors –
   While you are in your bedroom, your chances of escaping a fire that has started elsewhere in your home are increased. Therefore, it is advisable to install an alarm both inside and outside your bedroom, enabling you to be alerted to a fire situation while inside and take appropriate action accordingly.
   
4. Create an exit plan –
   An exit plan that includes multiple or alternative exit routes from various rooms should be devised so that all family members can evacuate from their respective rooms in the event of a fire. Document it or outline it on a chalkboard and discuss it with everyone in the household, particularly the children, ensuring everyone is informed and knows how to escape during a fire. Additionally, choose a common gathering place outside the house for everyone to assemble after exiting. Rehearse the plan at least once every few months or whenever you are considering changing the batteries in the fire alarm.
   
5. Obtain a Fire Ladder –
   Fire ladders can be in the form of ropes or chains with metal steps and can be easily found in home improvement stores. If you reside on higher floors of multi-storied buildings, fire ladders are essential.
   
6. Evacuate first, then call emergency services –
   It could be a widely held belief to call the emergency number while still inside your home during a fire. However, in contrast to this, it is recommended to first evacuate the house and then contact the emergency number to provide your location and additional information. This way, you will be less likely to panic. It may not be advisable to concentrate on anything else while escaping the fire.
   
7. Do not re-enter a burning home-
   After you have exited your house during a fire, resist the urge to impulsively go back inside, even if you remember important items that you do not wish to lose. This could result in severe consequences. Life is invaluable, so prioritize your safety and protect your loved ones; material possessions can be replaced.
   
8. Do not leave a burning candle in a room unattended-
   Candles are often part of celebrations and serve as a quick source of light during a power outage. However, unattended candles have been known to cause fires in numerous instances. Keep a vigilant eye on candles, even if you are using them for a specific reason, and make sure to extinguish them if you leave the area. Additionally, do not leave a candle or any incense stick burning when exiting the house.
   
9. Avoid sleeping with space heaters-
   While space heaters can be beneficial, they are also prone to starting fires. At night, they might come into contact with bed sheets or blankets, or may even overheat when you accidentally fall asleep. Therefore, it is always recommended to turn them off before going to bed for the night.
   
10. Acquire a fire extinguisher-
    Ultimately, having a fire extinguisher outside your apartment or one located on every level of your house is crucial. Extinguishers with an ABC classification can be used for various types of fires. You should also familiarize yourself with and practice using one in case it becomes necessary.
    
    Conclusion
    
    By keeping these simple guidelines in mind and remaining vigilant as a family, you can enhance the safety of yourself and your loved ones from potential fire accidents. With HDFC ERGO’s Standard Fire and Special Perils Policy, you can rest assured that your valuable items are protected and well-managed without any inconvenience.
    
    Disclaimer:
    The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. For further details, please consult policy wording and the prospectus prior to finalizing any sales.