As we enjoy cooler evenings you may be relying on your fireplace or a space heater for warmth in your home. Because too often this time of year we hear sirens of fire trucks rushing to a house fire caused by unsafe heating conditions, we wanted to share some important safety tips with you.

Fireplace

• Your chimney or wood stove should be inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney specialist.
• Keep the area around your fireplace clear of flammable materials. This is especially important to remember during the holidays when you are decorating your home.
• The type of wood you burn matters. You should use only seasoned hardwood, because it burns cleaner and reduces the creosote buildup.
• Never leave a fire unattended. If you are leaving or going to bed, extinguish the fire.
• Keep your roof clean and trim back any low-hanging branches.
• Make sure you have a working smoke detector on every floor of your home. Check them monthly and change the batteries once a year.

Space Heater

• For electrical heaters, check the cord. Look for any wear or damage. Do not use a heater with a worn or damaged cord.
• Keep all flammable materials at least three feet away from the heater. This includes curtains and bedding.
• Occasionally check the plug. If the plug feels hot, it could a sign of faulty wiring. If you have a hot plug, contact a qualified technician.
• If you use a fuel-filled heater, use only the recommended fuel. And when refueling, make sure the heater is off and has cooled off completely.

If you have questions about your Home Insurance, we’re here for you via our website, Facebook, Twitter, with a phone call at 251-943-6677 or in person at our office in Foley at 8154 Hwy 59 Suite 208.

Maybe you’ve heard the term “independent insurance agency” before but don’t really know what it could mean for you. At First Baldwin Insurance being an independent agency means our focus can remain squarely on your needs. We don’t work for an insurance company and that makes all the difference.

We work for our customers. That means we start by listening to their needs. We ask questions. And then we get to work to tailor the right policy to fit those needs. It means that you have someone on your side, someone who will provide the level of personal service that is sorely missing in so many parts of our lives today.

When you are insured with First Baldwin Insurance we’re here for you. We respond to your emails, your phone calls. We’re here when you have questions and when your needs change. And if you ever face an unfortunate event, you won’t face it alone. We’ll be here with you, every step of the way.

If you are already a customer, thank you. We appreciate your business. If you are evaluating your insurance needs, we encourage you to contact us for an independent conversation. You can reach us via our website, Facebook,  Twitter, with a phone call at 251-943-6677 or in person at our office in Foley at 8154 Hwy 59 Suite 208.

We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.