Top 5 Must-Have Safety Items for Every Ohio Home

The Buckeye State offers a vibrant mix of urban excitement and rural charm. But no matter where you call home in Ohio, being prepared for the unexpected is key to keeping your loved ones safe. From unpredictable weather to potential security threats, having the right safety items on hand can make all the difference.

Here's our list of the top 5 must-have safety items for every Ohio resident:

1. Fire Extinguisher:

Kitchen fires are a common threat, with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reporting that cooking equipment was the leading cause of home structure fires in   2021. Having a multi-purpose (ABC type) fire extinguisher readily available in your kitchen and near potential fire hazards (like fireplaces) allows you to address small fires before they become out of control.

2. Carbon Monoxide Detector:

This silent killer is responsible for hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries each year according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  Faulty furnaces, gas leaks, and even clogged chimneys can leak CO. Install CO detectors on every floor of your house, near bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test your detectors monthly and replace them every 5-10 years.

3. Smoke Detector:

Working smoke detectors can be lifesaving. The NFPA reports that smoke detectors played a role in saving an estimated 106,100 lives between 2011-2021. Install smoke detectors on every level of your home, including the basement.  Interlink your detectors so that if one goes off, they all sound the alarm.  Smoke detectors should also be tested monthly and replaced every 10 years.

4. First-Aid Kit:

A well-stocked first-aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, and burns. Your kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, tweezers, and other basic medical supplies. Consider including items specific to Ohio weather hazards, like sunscreen for summer and hand warmers for winter.

5. Home Security System (Optional, but Highly Recommended):

While not essential for every home, a well-monitored security system can significantly deter break-ins and provide peace of mind. Consider systems like Kangaroo Home Security that offer easy-to-install features, pet-friendly motion sensors, and work well with harsh Ohio winters. Explore options with outdoor cameras that can withstand the elements and ensure they cover basement entry points.   

What type of security system is right for you? Consider your needs and budget. DIY home security systems like Kangaroo, SimpliSafe or Arlo offer easy installation and often come with a lower upfront cost. However, professionally monitored systems from companies like Frontpoint or Guardian can provide a faster response time in case of an emergency.

No matter which system you choose, make sure it includes essential features like:

• Security cameras (including outdoor cameras for year-round monitoring in Ohio's weather)

• Video doorbell camera for identifying visitors before they enter your home

• Motion detectors to pick up on unusual activity inside your home

• Glass break sensors to detect attempted break-ins through windows

• Door and window sensors to monitor openings

• Keypad for easy system arming and disarming

• Alarm monitor to receive alerts if the system is triggered (and minimize the risk of false alarms!)

For an extra layer of security, consider smart home integration. Smart home security systems allow you to control your lights, locks (like smart locks), and thermostat remotely, giving the illusion of a constantly occupied home.

Business Security in Ohio: The safety tips above apply to businesses as well. Commercial security systems typically require additional features like access control systems and video surveillance to monitor larger spaces and deter employee theft.

Keep Reading:

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Bonus Tip: Get to know your neighbors! Building a strong sense of community can be a powerful deterrent to crime. Participating in neighborhood watch programs or simply keeping an eye out for each other can significantly improve overall safety.

By having these essential safety items in your Ohio home and taking preventative measures, you can create a safer environment for yourself and your loved ones. Remember, regularly check the expiration dates of your safety equipment and replace them as needed. Stay prepared, stay safe!

Did You Know? Ohio Homes Are Embracing Smart Security

Ohio might be known for its cornfields and cosmonaut ice cream, but there's a growing trend in the Buckeye State: smart home security. Did you know that Ohio's property crime rate is nearly 5.5% higher than the national average? (source: Ohio's Violent Crime Rate Below the National Average: https://www.lsc.ohio.gov/assets/organizations/legislative-service-commission/files/2022-ohio-facts-violent-and-property-crime-rates.pdf). This, coupled with Ohio's tech-savvy population, is leading to a surge in residents adopting smart security systems. These systems offer features like remote monitoring, weatherproof cameras, and even integration with smart locks and thermostats, creating a more secure and convenient living experience.

Glossary of Safety Terms for Ohio Homes

Staying safe in Ohio means being prepared for a variety of situations. This glossary defines key terms related to home security systems and general safety measures in the Buckeye State.

Home Security Systems:

• Alarm System/Home Security System: An electronic system with sensors and alarms to deter break-ins and alert homeowners of potential danger.

• Best Home Security/Best Security: Subjective terms used to describe a security system that meets an individual's specific needs and budget. Consider factors like features, monitoring options, and customer service reputation.

• Commercial Security System: Security systems designed for businesses, often including features like video surveillance and access control systems to monitor larger spaces and deter employee theft.

• DIY Home Security: Security systems that users can install and manage themselves, typically offering lower upfront costs than professionally monitored systems. (e.g., SimpliSafe, Arlo)

• Doorbell Camera/Video Doorbell: A camera mounted near the doorbell that captures video and audio of visitors, allowing homeowners to identify them remotely.

• False Alarm: An unintended activation of a security system that triggers an alarm response.

• Glass Break Sensor: A sensor that detects the sound of breaking glass, potentially indicating a break-in attempt.

• Home Automation: Integrating smart home devices like thermostats, lights, and locks with your security system for increased convenience and remote control.

• Keypad: A control panel used to arm and disarm the security system, often with a code for added security.

• Local Security Company: A security company with a physical presence in Ohio, offering installation, service, and customer support. (e.g., companies based in Columbus, Cleveland, Reynoldsburg)

• Motion Detector: A sensor that detects movement within a designated area, triggering an alarm if unauthorized activity is suspected.

• Monitor/Alarm Monitor: The central hub of a monitored security system, receiving alerts from sensors and transmitting them to a monitoring center for dispatch if needed.

• Outdoor Camera/Security Camera: A weatherproof camera used for outdoor surveillance, allowing homeowners to monitor their property remotely.

• Security Company/Home Security Company/Security System Company: A company that provides and installs home security systems, often offering monitoring services and customer support. (e.g., ADT, Guardian Alarm)

• Security Service/Security Solution: The overall service provided by a security company, including system installation, monitoring, and technical support.

• Smart Home Security: Security systems that integrate with other smart home devices, offering features like remote control and automation for a more comprehensive security solution.

• Video Surveillance: The use of video cameras to monitor a specific area, often used in conjunction with security systems.

• Window Sensor: A sensor that detects if a window is opened or forced open, triggering an alarm.

General Safety:

• Carbon Monoxide (CO): An odorless, colorless gas produced by incomplete combustion that can be deadly in high concentrations. CO detectors are essential for early warning.

• Smoke Detector: An electronic device that detects smoke and sounds an alarm in case of a fire.

Additional Resources:

• Ohio's Violent Crime Rate Below the National Average: https://www.lsc.ohio.gov/assets/organizations/legislative-service-commission/files/2022-ohio-facts-violent-and-property-crime-rates.pdf

By understanding these terms, Ohio residents can make informed decisions about home security needs and ensure the safety of their families.