Fire Safety in Your Home

Each year, fire kills more Americans than any other natural disaster. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, 80% of fire deaths occur in residences. While no home can ever be completely fireproof, there are many steps you can take to reduce the risk of fire for your family and home:

Smoke Detectors - Are the simplest and easiest way to enhance fire safety in your home. These simple devices are easy to install. Make sure your home has smoke detectors in every bedroom at a minimum, and test them frequently.

Use Appliances Wisely - Overheating, unusual smells, shorts and sparks are all warning signs that an appliance needs to be shut off and either repaired or replaced. Unplug appliances when not in use.

Never Overload Circuits or Extension Cords - Don’t place cords or wires under rugs, over nails, or in high traffic areas.

Portable Heaters - Need at least three feet of space from any combustible materials.

Fireplaces - Should be used with fire screens, and chimneys should be cleaned each year.

Fire Extinguishers – Each home should have at least two fire extinguishers, with one in a designated place in the kitchen. Cooking fires are the leading cause of both home fires and home fire injuries in the U.S.

Extinguish Candles - Before going to bed or when leaving a room.

Smoking Indoors - Always use an ashtray and exercise caution. Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths in the U.S. As a rule of thumb, do not empty your ashtray into a wastebasket immediately prior to retiring for the night. Allow it to sit overnight. This allows any slow burning embers to fully extinguish in the ashtray, which contains limited fuel for a fire.

Heating System – Your home’s heating system should be properly inspected and maintained. Poorly maintained furnaces cause many fires. There is also the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning with a malfunctioning gas furnace.

These are just a few ways that you can protect your home from fire. More information can be found on the U.S. Fire Administration’s website, or by contacting your local fire department. If you want more tips for homeowners, visit my blog or my website.

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