Following the firestorm in Lahaina, fire safety is more of a priority for rebuilding. Even though it was confined to Lahaina, nearly any area of Maui could be susceptible to fire. Fire safety should be an integral part of a new home design.
Some buildings in the affected areas did not burn completely. Many were built according to modern building codes and integrated updated building materials and techniques that prevented the fire from destroying the structure. These single and multifamily buildings included noncombustible materials for the walls, metal, and asphalt shingle roofs, and high wind-rated attic vents that kept embers out of attic spaces.
Fire Shielding
From flying embers that can go unnoticed to a nearby blaze, the home’s exterior is the first line of defense.
• Non-flammable siding can help a fire from spreading quickly, but it also must be maintained to protect its fire-retardant properties.
• The roof of your home is the first line of defense against the elements. If you use asphalt, make sure that it is fire-rated.
• Gutters can start or exacerbate a fire if they’re debris-filled. Leaf guards can prevent them from filling with this fire hazard.
• Dual-pane windows can also keep fire out and reduce your home’s energy costs.
• Decks and patios should also be flame-retardant. Increasing the use of concrete in some parts of the home, such as patios, can add to the home’s fire resistance.
Consider a storage area for flammables and combustibles in a detached area at least five feet away from your home, such as a shed.
Fire Suppression
If a fire does start, the next part of your home’s fire safety involves stopping the fire from spreading. Sprinklers are one of the most effective ways to stop most fires and are designed to detect fires and immediately squelch them before they spread.
But the exposed fixtures can detract from a home’s décor. Fortunately, concealed sprinkler systems can integrate into any décor and be mostly concealed except for a small cover plate. These systems come in a variety of colors and finishes to match any type of décor and can be customized for each room.
Another advantage of a concealed system is that the sprinkler heads and other components will not be likely to suffer damage from an accidental hit.
Homes of all sizes can benefit from a sprinkler system and this is another way to minimize damage if the worst happens.
The Exit Plan
Fire spreads fast, so, you only have seconds to get out—do you have a plan? The National Fire Protection Association reports that from the time your fire alarms begin their alerts, you’ll have one to two minutes to escape.
When designing your home, two exits from each room are ideal. Keep the exits clear of debris, vegetation, and other obstacles outside that prevent escape. Ensuring that your home’s address is visible helps emergency responders find it quickly.
Once you’ve taken residence, have a fire escape plan ready and make sure that everyone understands how it should work to ensure that everyone will be safely evacuated.
The NFPA offers resources for home fire safety on its website, and additional information on preventing wildfire is available here.
Let Pro Draft Design Your Next Building Project
Whether you’re building your first home or your next, renovating your current home, or building a commercial property, Pro Draft can help with drawings, project management, fire protection, permits, and other needs.
We can answer all your questions before the first day of construction. We’re happy to help and will work to ensure your project is exactly the way you envision.
Call Pro Draft today at (808) 579-9050 or 1-800-499-4699 from the Mainland