Sometimes You Have to Spend Some Money to Save Money

Looking at your bottom line and finding ways to save money without interfering with your lifestyle is important. When people look to save money, they are most likely to continue on the frugal path when their quality of life does not decline.

Some simple things? Air drying clothes instead of drying them in the dryer or not running the dry cycle on your dishwasher. Those little actions can save money over time.

However, sometimes you have to spend money to save money, and such is the case with fire prevention. Take these steps to protect your home or business from fire:

1. Invest in several good smoke alarms. Many house fires with the highest fatalities occur in homes without smoke alarms. Buy smoke alarms from Fire Protection Online or another company. Yes, you will have to pay money some money to put smoke alarms in each bedroom and the main living area, but by doing so, you will protect not only your greatest asset, your home, but your life and the lives of those in your family. If you own a business in a separate structure, have smoke alarms throughout the building.

2. Buy a few fire extinguishers. Hopefully you never have to use them, but if you do, having one close by can stop a fire before it spreads and does much structural damage. Yes, fire extinguishers are expensive, and you may not need them, but the security is worth the expense.

3. Use candles with caution. Candles can be beautiful and relaxing when lit at night, but they annually are responsible for “$390 million in direct property loss” (FEMA) thanks to accidental fires. Likewise, businesses such as restaurants that are lit by candle light as well as spas need to monitor candle usage carefully and choose stout containers for candles that can hold the candle securely, minimizing the chance of starting an accidental fire.

4. Practice an escape plan. If you take all of the precautions and still have a fire, you will want to have a clear escape route planned for all family members or employees. Make sure to practice your escape plan every month so all persons are familiar with it.

Sometimes you have to spend some money to protect yourself, your home, and your business. Hopefully, you will never need smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, but if you do, being prepared and having them can save you thousands of dollars in property damage as well as save your life. Spending money for that is worthwhile.