With more people than ever cooking at home these days, it’s no surprise that home fires are on the rise across the Cleveland, Ohio area and the nation. Do you know what your home insurance policy covers in the event of a fire? Take care and follow our home cooking safety tips – including reviewing your home insurance or renter’s insurance to make sure you, your family and pets can enjoy each other and your home for years to come.

Additionally, since it is Superbowl weekend – and this is the “Cooking with Insurance” blog, we can’t resist throwing in a couple of our favorite game day recipe photos of chief protection coach, Kim Rankin’s famous Sloppy Joes and Macaroni Salad (see above). But first, let’s talk about home fire safety and home insurance across Ohio.  

HOME FIRE SAFETY TIPS INCLUDING A HOME INSURANCE REVIEW

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires according to research conducted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Sadly, cooking fires are the most preventable and by following these tips, you may help save lives and property and avoid making a fire loss claim on your home insurance.

1. Schedule your calendar with regular inspections of fire suppression devices such as fire extinguishers and fire blankets. Also book time for maintenance if needed.
2. Twice a year, when the time moves from standard time to daylight saving time (and back again), change the batteries in your smoke detectors and test the devices to make certain they are in working order.
3. If you are a landlord with tenants, be certain to equip all units with fire extinguishers, fire blankets as well as guidance on fire exits, fire escapes and a codified list of best practices for fire safety.
4. Whether you own or rent, check with your local insurance agent to be certain that your home insurance or renter’s insurance policies accurately reflect the value of your home and possessions.

PRACTICE SAFE COOKING AND YOU MAY NEVER HAVE TO USE HOME INSURANCE

1. Practice safe cooking by NOT leaving the kitchen for any reason while cooking – even if your favorite football team scores a touchdown.
2. Do NOT disable smoke detectors while cooking.
3. Use the timer on your smart phone to help with multitasking.
4. Keep anything flammable away from the stove top including towels, rags, oven mitts, wooden utensils, long hair and flowing clothing.
5. Be careful not to slip on the floor.
6. Keep a baking pan or large pot lid nearby in case a small fire does occur. In the event of a fire, close the kitchen door and GET OUT!
   
   

And remember, follow these cooking at home safety tips and give us a call if you have questions or need a review of your home insurance policy or renter’s insurance policy. We’re here to help!

Read Kim's recipes for "Crock Pot Sloppy Joe's" and "Lynn's Infamous Macaroni Salad" on our Facebook page.