Friday, May 1, 2015

Deltona Barbeque Safety

Barbeque grill are the #10 leading cause of home fires in the United States.  With the Fourth of July coming up this week and summer grilling now is the time to check your grill and review BBQ grilling safety.  Grilling steaks and burgers with your family will make a great summer time gathering. A home fire will make your summer commencement barbeque unforgettable for all the wrong reasons.  The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that there were 3,800 grill injuries reported annually requiring medical care.



Before grilling check your equipment, review safety procedures with your party and children, and ensure you have proper clearance from combustible material.  Have your home fire extinguisher or garden hose in a handy location.  Keep children and pets away from the grill area and never leave your grill unattended.



  • Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors. 
  • The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. 
  • Keep children and pets away from the grill area. 
  • Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill. 
  • Never leave your grill unattended.

 BEFORE BARBECUING


  • Grill maintenance, check thoroughly for leaks, cracking or brittleness before using it.  Propane grills clean out the tubes that lead into the burner.
  • Make sure the grill is at least 10 feet away from your house, garage, or trees.
  • Store and use your grill on a large flat surface that cannot burn (i.e. - concrete or asphalt).
  • Grills should not be placed in a garage, porch, deck or on top of anything that can catch fire.
  • Establish a safety zone around the grill area.  Keep children away from fires and grills. Instruct children to remain outside the zone. A chalk line works great for this purpose.
  • Have a fire extinguisher, a garden hose attached to a water supply, or at least 4 gallons of water close by in case of a fire. 

 DURING BARBECUING 

  • Don't wear loose clothing that might catch fire.
  • Use long handled barbecue tools and/or flame resistant mitts.
  • Never use any flammable liquid other than a barbecue starter fluid to start a fire.
  • Never pour or spray starter fluid onto an open flame. The flames can easily flashback along the fluid's path to the container in your hands.
  • Alcoholic beverages are flammable.  Keep them away from the grill.
  • Never leave the grill unattended.

 AFTER BARBECUING


  • Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning and storing instructions for the grill.
  • Keep your grill clean and free of grease buildup that may lead to a fire.
  • Never store liquid or pressurized fuels inside your home and/or near any possible sources of flame.

IN CASE OF A BARBECUE FIRE

  • PROPANE Grills - turn off the burners.  If you can safely reach the tank valve, shut it off.  If the fire involves the tank, leave it alone, evacuate the area and call the fire department (911).
  • CHARCOAL Grills - close the grill lid. ELECTRIC Grills - disconnect the power.
  • DIAL 911 - If there is any type of fire that either threatens your personal safety or endangers property.
  • Grease fires - NEVER attempt to extinguish with water. It will only cause the flames to flare up. Use an approved portable fire extinguisher.

PROPANE GRILLS



The CPSC reports that more than 500 fires and 20 injuries occur every year from gas grill fires and explosions of grills that have not been used for several months.

  • Check the tubes leading to the burner regularly for blockages. Check with your specific grill manufacturer's instructions.
  • Check for leaks EVERY TIME you replace the cylinder. Pour soapy solution over the connections and if bubbles begin to form, there is a leak. Placing the soapy solution into a spray bottle makes it much easier to apply. If there is a leak, turn off the grill IMMEDIATELY and have it fixed. Do NOT use the grill until the leak is fixed.
  • Make sure all the connections are secure BEFORE turning on the gas.
  • Never start a propane grill with the lid closed. Gas can accumulate and when the grill is ignited may cause an explosion.
  • Only get propane from approved compressed gas suppliers.
  • Before getting a propane cylinder filled, check for any damages to it.
  • Never store propane cylinders indoors or near any heat source.
  • Never transport or store propane cylinders in the trunk of your automobile.
  • ALWAYS shut off the propane fuel at the grill and at the bottle after you have finished barbecuing. Otherwise, this will lead to fire hazards, such as leaks and faulty regulators.


CHARCOAL GRILLS



Twenty deaths and 400 injuries are treated resulting from carbon monoxide poisoning from charcoal grills according to the CPSC.

  • Due to the production of carbon monoxide when charcoal is burned, charcoal grills should not be used inside homes, vehicles, tents, or campers, even if ventilation is provided. Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless; you will not be alerted to the danger until it is too late.
  • Never use any flammable liquid other than barbecue starter fluid to start a charcoal barbecue.
  • Use the starter fluid sparingly and never put it on an open flame.
  • Never add fire starter after you have started your barbecue to speed a slow fire or rekindle a dying fire. The flames can easily flashback along the fluid's path to the container in your hands.
  • Remove the charcoal ashes from the grill and place them into a metal container with a tight-fitting metal lid. Add and mix in water with the ashes, and set aside for several days. Dispose of the mixture in accordance with the Department of Sanitation's guidelines.
  • Remove the ashes only after they are completely cooled and no warm embers remain.
  • Always soak coals with water after cooking; they retain their heat for long periods of time.
  • Keep damp or wet coals in a well-ventilated area. During the drying process, spontaneous combustion can occur in confined areas.


ELECTRIC GRILLS



  • Keep the grill at least 10 feet away from any combustible material.
  • Do NOT use any flammable liquid to start an electric grill.
  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions in the use of an electric grill.
  • When using an electrical extension cord, make sure it is properly rated for the amperage required for the electric grill. Route extension cords out of the line of foot traffic to avoid trip hazards.


DEEP FRYERS


According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), deep fryer fires cause an average of 5 deaths, 60 injuries, and more than $15 million in property damage each year.


Basic safety principles when using deep fryers:


  • Oil Level - If the cooking pot is overfilled, the oil may spill out of the pot when the turkey is lowered in. Oil can hit the burner and cause a significant fire. Follow the owner's manual and make sure the oil level is at the proper level. 
  •  Frozen or Partially Thawed Meat in Oil - Frozen or partially frozen fowl placed into the fryer can cause the oil to spill over the pot and may result in a significant fire or burn injury. Do not use water to thaw your turkey. Make sure your fowl is properly thawed and slowly lower it into the pot to prevent the oil from splashing. 
  •  Placement of Deep Fryer  - Cook outdoors and on a level, firm, and non-combustible surface.  Home fires involving fryers can start in a garage or on a patio or deck. Maintain a safe distance from any buildings and keep the fryer off of any wooden structures. 
  •  Don't Use Water or Ice - When ice or water comes into contact with hot oil, the water vaporizes, causing steam bubbles to pop and spray hot oil. Do not use ice or water to cool down oil or extinguish an oil fire. Keep an extinguisher approved for cooking or grease fires nearby and immediately call 911 for help. 
  •  Don't Leave Your Fryer Unattended - Frying involves cooking with a combustible cooking oil or grease. Many frying units do not have thermostat controls and if unwatched, the oil will continue to heat until the oil ignites. 
  • Level Surfaces - Many fryers are very top-heavy and can be unstable if not used on a level surface. Fryers not on level surfaces can tip over causing a significant fire or burn injury.

REMEMBER


  • Never use a propane barbecue grill on a balcony, terrace or roof.
  • Never use a charcoal or propane grill inside your home or garage.
  • Propane tanks - no more than two (2) 20-pound propane tanks are allowed on the grounds of a one or two-family home, but be sure to follow the fire safety precautions above. 
  • Only use a charcoal barbecue on a balcony or terrace if there is a ten foot clearance from the building and there is an immediate source of water (garden hose or four (4) gallon pail of water).


Frank Carr is the Owner / Inspector at First Choice Home Inspections in Deltona, FL serving Volusia, Seminole, Orange and Lake Counties. Formerly in the building trades, Frank’s focus is a safe home in the Orlando Metro and Daytona Beach areas of Central Florida and building FCHI. We believe that consumers have the right to expect the highest standards of thoroughness, fairness and effectiveness from their home inspector and that is exactly what we provide.
 
First Choice Home Inspections
Residential Home Inspections in Central Florida
(386) 624-3893 

Sunday, March 1, 2015

Deltona Florida Home Inspection by Licensed Inspector

First Choice Home Inspections (386) 624-3893
Residential Home and Insurance Inspections in Central FL
Best Home Inspector in Volusia County, Best Home Inspector in Seminole County, Best Orange County Home Inspector, Best Lake County Home Inspector, Best Windermere Home Inspector, Best Alaqua Lakes Home Inspector, Best Magnolia Plantation Home Inspector, Best Home Inspector, Best Seminole Home Inspector, Best Volusia Home Inspector, Best Lake County Home Inspector, Best Volusia County Home Inspector, Best Daytona Beach Home Inspector, Best Deltona Home Inspector, Highest Rated Home Inspector, Most Recommended Home Inspector, Highest Rated Deltona Home Inspector, Best Deltona Home Inspector, Best Lake Helen Home Inspection, Best Lake Helen Home Inspector, Best Orange City Home Inspection, Best Orange City Home Inspector, Best DeBary Home Inspector, Best DeBary Home Inspection, Best Debary Home Inspection, Best Debary Home Inspector, Debary Home Inspection, Debary Home Inspector, Deltona Home Inspection, Deltona Home Inspector, Deland Home Inspection, Deland Home Inspector, Sanford Home Inspection, Sanford Home Inspector,  Heathrow Home Inspector, Heathrow Home Inspection, Best Heathrow Home Inspection, Best Heathrow Home Inspector, Lake Mary Home Inspection, Best Lake Mary Home Inspection, Lake Mary Home Inspector,  Best Lake Mary Home Inspector, Winter Springs Home Inspection, Winter Springs Home Inspector, Best Winter Springs Home Inspector, Best Winter Springs Home Inspection, Oviedo Home Inspection, Oviedo Home Inspector, Best Oviedo Home Inspection, Best Oviedo Home Inspector, 
Now you can put our outstanding reputation for service and reliability to work for you. By contracting First Choice Home Inspection, you benefit from experienced Central Florida home inspectors that deliver computerized reports using the latest technology.  Our reporting system meets and exceeds the state standards. We encourage your presence during the inspection. By being present at the inspection, our professional home inspector can familiarize you with the home and explain things to you as they progress through the inspection.

INSPECTORS
First Choice inspectors are bound to a strict code of ethics; this ensures quality service while providing important protections. For example, our inspectors must:
  • Work Exclusively for the Client
  •  Follow Nationally Accepted Standards of Practice
  • Do Not Perform Repairs on Any Property Inspected
Our inspectors are AHIT and InterNachi certified in addition, they are familiar with a wide variety of situations. We believe that consumers have the right to expect the highest standards of thoroughness, fairness and effectiveness from their home inspector and that is exactly what we provide.

Home Inspection SERVICES in Volusia County

SCHEDULE AN INSPECTION:  (386) 624-3893

 
Office Hours

Monday to Friday: 8 AM to 5 PM

Saturday:  9 AM to 5 PM

Sunday:  11 AM to 3 PM



Providing Inspection Services for Central Florida

Volusia County, ALL

Deltona, Ormond Beach, Ormond by the Sea, Ormond, Osteen, Lake Helen, Cassadaga, Samsula, Debary, De Leon Springs, Conrad, Barberville,  Pierson, South Daytona, Daytona Beach Shores, Ponce Inlet, Wilbur by the Sea, Port Orange, Clencoe, Edgewater, Holly Hill, New Smyrna


Seminole County, ALL

Forest City, Sanford, Casselberry, Altamonte Springs, Fern Park, Longwood, Winter Springs, Lake Mary, Heathrow, Midway, Geneva, Chuluota, Oviedo,


Lake County, ALL

Florida Hills, Cassia, Umatilla, Fullerville,  Mt Plymouth, Ethel, Sorrento, Mt Dora, Eustis, Mt Homer, Tavares, Grand Island, Bassville Park, Lisbon, Leesburg, Fruitland Park, Lady Lake, The Villages, Wekiva, 


Orange County, ALL

South Apopka, Apopka, Maitland, Winter Park, Lockhart, Zellwood, Eatonville, Orlando, Lake Nona, Windermere, Belle Isle, Ocoee, Winter Garden
 
Now Servicing areas of:  Flagler, Marion, Osceola and Brevard Counties



Best Home Inspector in Volusia County, Best Home Inspector in Seminole County, Best Orange County Home Inspector, Best Lake County Home Inspector, Best Windermere Home Inspector, Best Alaqua Lakes Home Inspector, Best Magnolia Plantation Home Inspector, Best Home Inspector, Best Seminole Home Inspector, Best Volusia Home Inspector, Best Lake County Home Inspector, Best Volusia County Home Inspector, Best Daytona Beach Home Inspector, Best Deltona Home Inspector, Highest Rated Home Inspector, Most Recommended Home Inspector, Highest Rated Deltona Home Inspector, Best Deltona Home Inspector, Best Lake Helen Home Inspection, Best Lake Helen Home Inspector, Best Orange City Home Inspection, Best Orange City Home Inspector, Best DeBary Home Inspector, Best DeBary Home Inspection, Best Debary Home Inspection, Best Debary Home Inspector, Debary Home Inspection, Debary Home Inspector, Deltona Home Inspection, Deltona Home Inspector, Deland Home Inspection, Deland Home Inspector, Sanford Home Inspection, Sanford Home Inspector,  Heathrow Home Inspector, Heathrow Home Inspection, Best Heathrow Home Inspection, Best Heathrow Home Inspector, Lake Mary Home Inspection, Best Lake Mary Home Inspection, Lake Mary Home Inspector,  Best Lake Mary Home Inspector, Winter Springs Home Inspection, Winter Springs Home Inspector, Best Winter Springs Home Inspector, Best Winter Springs Home Inspection, Oviedo Home Inspection, Oviedo Home Inspector, Best Oviedo Home Inspection, Best Oviedo Home Inspector,

Frank Carr is the Owner / Inspector at First Choice Home Inspections in Deltona, FL serving Volusia, Seminole, Orange and Lake Counties. Formerly in the building trades, Frank’s focus is a safe home in the Orlando Metro and Daytona Beach areas of Central Florida and building FCHI. We believe that consumers have the right to expect the highest standards of thoroughness, fairness and effectiveness from their home inspector and that is exactly what we provide.
 
First Choice Home Inspections
Residential Home Inspections in Central Florida
(386) 624-3893 

Monday, February 2, 2015

Cost of a Deltona / Deland Home Inspection

I own First Choice Home Inspections and I get 100+ calls a week for home inspections. The first question and many times the only question the buyer asks me is "How much do you charge for a home inspection?” I do not over charge for home inspections. I am a thorough inspector and most inspections take 2 to 5 hours plus an additional 2 or 3 hours finalizing the report and marking the pictures. After the inspection I follow up with the client when they have read over the 40 to 96 page report. I sometime spend an additional hour answering any questions they may have and always let them know if they have any further questions they can always call me. 

As a reputable home inspector, I have expenses like continuing education, insurance (liability and E&O), advertising, tools, membership dues, state licensing fees and regular business expenses just to keep the doors open. My rates are reasonable and I do a complete inspections.  I know the inspectors that charge less for the inspections and I know their reputations for the work they do.  I also know the Realtor that recommend them and only them.  I know what the minimum rate I can charge for an inspection and still keep the doors open.

Every time I quote an inspection and the client says I’ll get back to you or I’m just going to check a few more places I know money is the issue and they will not schedule the appointment. I know the inspectors in Deltona and Deland that are cheaper.  I know they do a budget inspection in 45 min to an hour and half. A fast inspection is not a good inspection. A budget inspection is not a good inspection. If it is cheap, what is the client getting for their $199.00. Do they even bother to check if the inspector is active and licensed?  A budget inspector will often complete 3 or more inspections in a day.  When does he have time to research the building permits and history of the home? How can they possible concentrate on the inspection at hand with other inspections scheduled across town?  At First Choice, our inspectors are scheduled and perform 1 home inspection a day.  Our client is our only concern and will have our full attention.

I have relatives in other states that always call me when it comes to buying their home and the advice I always give them is check the inspector out. Check the state their state licensing, insurance, training and experience, and check with people you know for their recommendations. If the most qualified and reputable inspector charges $600, then he is the best inspector to hire. Remember $600 maybe a lot of money but it is only a small portion of a $20,000 roofing mistake not caught by the cheap inspector that did not crawl up in the attic.

Home inspection in Deltona Electrical safety hazard
Electrical junction nightmare – This junction was
 the result of handyman wiring and could
 have burned down this house.
When looking for a home inspector the last thing you should consider is the cost of the inspection.  The first thing on my mind is the safety of my family.  I do not want to be awake all night wondering if the inspector missed an electrical junction in the attic that should have been in a closed box.  All too often I run across things like the junction in the picture to the right, an exhaust fan wired into the closest wiring run.  In the picture you can note the black burn marks on the copper and the scorch marks on the sheathing and the wood.  The question you should ask yourself is would the $199.00 home inspector find this? 
In the opinion of this Home Inspector if the price is too low you must ask yourself; why?  The fee for a basic home inspection nationwide is $300 to $500 by HUD estimates in "Ten Important Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector" 2011.  The size of the home, additional components and structures, pools or spas and irrigation systems will all add to the price of the inspection.  Fees vary by region of the country significantly.  When purchasing your home, you want the best inspection at a reasonable price.  A thorough inspection will take from 2 to 5 hours to complete.  When it is your money and your family’s safety on the line you want the most meticulous inspector you can find.   
 
When contracting a home inspector check them out; license, insurance, professional association, and do they have complaints on file with the state regulatory agency.   Ask the important questions and if you are satisfied with the results ask the inspector for a quote. 



Best Deltona Home Inspector, Frank Carr (386) 624-3893

Frank Carr is the Owner / Inspector at First Choice Home Inspections in Deltona, FL serving Volusia, Seminole, Orange and Lake Counties. Formerly in the building trades, Frank’s focus is a safe home in the Orlando Metro and Daytona Beach areas of Central Florida and building FCHI. We believe that consumers have the right to expect the highest standards of thoroughness, fairness and effectiveness from their home inspector and that is exactly what we provide.
 
First Choice Home Inspections
Residential Home Inspections in Central Florida
(386) 624-3893