Stop, Drop & Roll: Fire Safety Must-Haves for Remodelers

By Julia Buerger, Electrical Merchant, The Home Depot

A fire ranks among a homeowner’s worst fears. Presenting protective measures at the start of remodeling planning can build confidence with customers and demonstrate your interest in their needs and safety. With October’s Fire Prevention Month observance underway, there is no better time to catch up on the latest fire-related home innovations and safety best practices.

Upgrade Smoke Detectors

Our research shows that only 25 percent of consumers are aware of the recommendation to replace smoke alarms every 10 years. After 10 years the sensors inside the alarms wear down, and even if the alarm still chirps when you test it or replace the battery, the sensors may be compromised. During a remodel, check all fire alarms at the customer’s home to see if they need to be replaced. If they do, choose a multipurpose alarm that will serve them well for a decade.



The new Kidde Intelligent Wireless Combination Alarm is a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm that connects wirelessly to other intelligent alarms. This gives each house maximum safety without the need for an expensive rewire. We worked directly with Kidde to make sure this alarm includes everything residents need – it detects both smoke and carbon monoxide, uses a sealed lithium-ion battery that last 10 years and features a Smart Hush button that temporarily silences nuisance alarms. It can even be connected to smart phones so residents can receive alerts while away. This combination alarm is only available at The Home Depot. Options like this are particularly useful for vacation or rental properties that may go unoccupied for long periods of time.

If alarms aren’t due for an upgrade, check to see if the batteries need to be replaced. Not all batteries are the same, so invest a little more upfront for a product that will last longer and help protect against preventable disasters. For example, Duracell’s Quantum technology is extremely long lasting and has a feature that guarantees batteries for 10 years in storage.

Home’s Hidden Threats

Fire threats are just as likely in hidden interior areas as they are in the visible ones. Insulation, electrical outlets and drywall are examples of behind-the-wall home components that can spark fires if outdated or incorrectly functioning. If you are just starting the building process or are in the early stages of remodeling, it’s the perfect situation to recommend these upgrades.

Electrical outlets are a major culprit for home fires. In fact, a recent study found that electrical receptacles are at the root of 5,300 fires each year, resulting in 40 deaths and more than 100 consumer injuries on average. To offset these risks, pros should consider installing receptacles that offer additional electrical protection. AFCI-ready properties in particular stand to benefit from dual-function AFCI/GFCI alternatives which identify and prevent common electrical risks more capably than most standard breakers.



There are several behind-the-wall preparations that can contain the damage and preserve key structural elements if a fire does occur. When installing pipes, cables and duct penetrations, an insulating foam sealant can close gaps and prevent the spread of harmful gasses and toxic smoke. Also, in fire-prone areas, such as attics and kitchens, it’s best to apply heavy-duty insulation capable of withstanding high-intensity temperatures.

Extinguisher Checkups

Portable fire extinguishers put out a fire 94 percent of the time they are used, according to the Fire Equipment Manufacturer’s Association. Similar to alarms, take a moment to check through the customer’s home to make sure all their extinguishers are functional. All extinguishers should be easy to access, at the recommended pressure level, clean and in good working order, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. If they need to be replaced, choose a multipurpose option like an ABC-rated fire extinguisher, which can handle a variety of fires, including electrical, wood, fabrics, plastics, paper and flammable liquids.

Help decrease risk, increase safety and extinguish concerns by updating and replacing dated fire safety equipment and devices.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Julia Buerger is a merchant for The Home Depot, responsible for fire safety, security and consumer electronics.