Home Fire Prevention and Safety

 

If the smoke alarm goes off in your home, do you and your family have a fire escape plan?

 

In 2011, fire departments responded to 370,000 home fires – and while not all home fires are preventable, creating a fire-prevention plan can reduce the risk of fire in your home. Check out the home fire prevention tips below to keep your home and family safe.

 

Here’s a summary of the 10 tips – have you checked them off in your home?

1. Sweep the chimney – Do this yearly to prevent the buildup of flammable creosote.
 
2. Smoke detectors – Place a smoke detector on every floor, and in or near every bedroom. Make sure to test the batteries regularly and change every six months.
 
3. Fire escapes – Keep roll-out ladders near each window above the first floor for a safe escape in case of fire.
 
4. Space heaters – Place space heaters at least 3 feet away from other objects.
 
5. Safe – Protect irreplaceable items and important documents in a safe that has an Underwriters Laboratory Rating of 125 or above.
 
6. Electrical outlets – Use one surge protector per wall outlet to protect your electrical system and electronics.
 
7. Candles – Rather than burning real candles, try battery-operated ones instead. If you do burn real candles, never leave them unattended.
 
8. Stove – Don’t leave a hot stove while cooking. Stay in the kitchen, and avoid trying to multitask while cooking a meal.
 
9. Fire extinguisher – Keep a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen, and replace it as often as the manufacturer recommends.
 
10. Fire Drills – Run practice fire drills with your family to ensure that everyone knows which exits to use in case of an emergency.

Keep your family and property safe by having a fire escape plan, and avoiding common fire hazards. And pass this graphic along to friends and family so they can do the same.