In this economy, homeowners face a variety of economic challenges. Rather than succumb to falling real estate prices and uncertainty, there is an alternative: practical investments in personal protection, starting with fire safety, which upgrade a home's value for the betterment of everyone. This decision, which complements recent state laws requiring the installation of sprinklers and other fire safety equipment for newly expanded homes, is an affordable but effective way to immediately improve the worth of residential and commercial properties.

Homeowners in several states, including California, already endorse this idea, based on the financial conditions of the real estate market and the importance of making personal safety a top priority.

Please note: fire safety equipment refers to, among other things, the installation and maintenance of sprinklers, not smoke detectors. The latter are often unreliable - by detecting everything, including burnt toast, they detect nothing – and insufficient in the midst of a flash fire or sudden calamity. The new law mandates, instead, the use of more sophisticated equipment with a proven record of success for both residential and commercial clients.

The installation of fire safety equipment is not simply a matter for homeowners in the midst of a renovation or expansion. Many residents nationwide recognize that their own protection starts with a serious inventory of the options necessary to achieve this goal. Meaning: fire safety is no longer an afterthought or discretionary purchase; it is the principal means of distinguishing one property from another, while preserving the natural beauty of a home.

In contrast, other changes to a home - like the construction of a swimming pool or spa or decking – may only appeal to a select group of people, which means there is a substantial risk these "amenities" will become costly liabilities. Never mind the added expense of maintaining something a future buyer does not want and will not use. Right now, homes that have assets that appeal to everyone - things like effective security systems, energy efficient plumbing, and yes, fire safety equipment - will create equity.

With a basic investment in concealed sprinklers and regular maintenance, homeowners can fulfill both their legal responsibilities and their interests in safety. The lasting worth of this decision gives residents some much needed peace of mind, particularly during these otherwise difficult times.

Finally, some additional advice for homeowners: always work with certified, credible fire safety professionals. This topic is too important to be the plaything of inexperienced or unqualified technicians. With this understanding and an emphasis on results, homeowners have a new way to succeed. Safety is their path to newfound protection and growth.

American Fire Protection Systems ("AFPS"), Inc., http://www.americanfireinc.com, a leading provider of innovative fire protection services, reminds consumers throughout Southern California to have the most responsive and attractive fire sprinklers now available. This campaign, which reflects new state fire safety requirements, allows residential homeowners to enjoy the same award-winning protection found in top hotels and other high-end public facilities. Backed by the experienced, licensed fire sprinkler professionals of AFPS, and bonded by the industry's largest and strongest bonding company, this effort gives clients the chance to invest in the most important part of any property: fire protection.

Published: December 12, 2011

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