Read these tips to help prevent fires in your home
and community. Share them and keep your family
and neighborhood safe.
Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
Test and dust each alarm monthly, and change the batteries at least once a year.
Never smoke in bed, while drowsy, or while under the influence of medication or
alcohol. Use large, deep ashtrays for smoking debris, and let the contents cool
before you dispose of them.
Keep pot handles turned inward, and keep cooking surfaces and surrounding areas free
from clutter and grease buildup. Use pot holders and oven mitts. Never lean over a hot
burner and avoid wearing loose clothing with flowing sleeves while cooking. Take a
reminder with you (or set a timer) if you must leave the kitchen with food cooking on
the range top.
Have a professional service all heating equipment annually. Keep combustibles
and anything that can burn or melt away from all heaters, furnaces, fireplaces,
and water heaters. Never use a range or oven to heat your home.
Have a professional electrician inspect your home’s electrical wiring system at least
every 10 years, and make recommended repairs. Never overload the electrical
system.
Plug each appliance directly into its own outlet and avoid using extension cords.
Have an electrician install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in rooms where
water may be present. Install and maintain electrical appliances according to the
manufacturers’ instructions.
Store matches and lighters in a locked drawer or a high cabinet away from the
reach of children. Make sure lighters are child-resistant.
Practice two ways out of every room in your home. Get out as soon as you discover a
fire; do not try to fight the fire. Once out of the house, stay out; do not attempt to
enter a burning home to gather possessions left behind. Immediately dial 9-1-1 or your
local emergency number for help, preferably from a neighbor's phone.
(Source - United States Fire Administration)