Fire Prevention – 10 Tips to Keep Your Home Safe

A fire can start in the blink of an eye, but the damage it leaves behind can last a lifetime. That’s why it’s so important to be proactive about fire prevention. Taking some simple steps to reduce the risk of a fire starting in your home is well worth the effort. Here are 10 tips to help you get started.

1) Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms are recommended to be installed in each sleeping room, (1) outside of each sleeping room(s), and one per level including habitable attics and basements. We recommend replacing the batteries and testing the smoke alarms before spending your first night in the home and then testing them monthly thereafter, replacing the batteries every six – twelve months, and replacing the alarms again every five to ten years (manufacturer specific). Several other recommendations relating to smoke alarms and fire safety are recommended by the NFPA, and can be found here:

http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/smoke-alarms/installing-and-maintaining-smoke-alarms

2) Properly Store Flammables

Keep flammable and combustible materials like gasoline, propane, kerosene, and cleaning fluids in appropriate containers and away from heat sources.

3) Matches/Lighters/Candles

Store matches and lighters out of reach of children and never leave burning candles unattended.

4) Safe Use of Extension Cords

Use extension cords only when absolutely necessary and never overload them. Unplug electrical appliances when not in use

5) Avoid Electrical Overload

Don’t overload circuits or plug too many appliances into one outlet. Use surge protectors to avoid damaging delicate electronic equipment.

6) Inspect Cords

Inspect electrical cords regularly for fraying or cracks and replace them immediately if damaged.

7) Space Heaters

If you must use a space heater, place it on a level surface away from flammable materials like curtains, bedding, and furniture. Never leave it unattended while on.

8) Woodstove/Fireplace Maintenance

Keep woodstoves, fireplaces, and portable heaters clear of debris and flammable materials like newspapers, magazines, rugs, and curtains. Inspect and clean them regularly according to manufacturer’s instructions

9) Don ‘t Leave Stove Unattended

Never leave food cooking unattended on the stovetop or in the oven; stay in the kitchen while cooking meals. If you must leave, turn off the appliance first.

10) Have a Plan

Have a plan! In the event of a fire, knowing what to do ahead of time can mean the difference between life and death.. evacuate immediately if a fire starts. If you cannot safely evacuate,. go to a room with an exterior wall and no windows,. Close all doors between you and the fire, stuff towels or other cloth items under doors, stay low where the air is clearer, call 911 once you are safe and wait for help outside.. never go back inside for anything or anyone. Once everyone is accounted for, have a designated meeting spot outside so you can be sure everyone made it out safely. Practice your plan regularly with everyone in your household so that everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency..

Taking some simple steps to prevent fires from starting in your home is vital to keeping your family safe.. Implementing as many of these tips as possible will help reduce the risk of a devastating fire starting in your home.. Be proactive about fire safety today!