According to the Home Safety Council’s State of Home Safety in America™ Report
fires and burns are the third leading cause of unintentional home injury and related deaths
Fire Prevention Tips
Prevent Kitchen Fires
- Do not leave Flammable objects on Stove tops or Ovens
- Stay in the Kitchen when cooking
- If stove is under window make sure no curtains hang over
- Keep Kitchen appliances clean & turn off when not in use
- Do not wear loose clothing when cooking, loose sleeves can easily ignite over a hot burner
- Keep Fire Extinguisher (ABC) in Kitchen at least 10 feet from oven near the closest exit
Smoke Detectors
- Install smoke detectors in the entrance way and all levels of your house
- Smoke detectors should also be installed near or in every bedroom in house
- Be sure to test you smoke detectors every month
- Replace batteries in smoke detectors at least once a year
- Replace Smoke Detectors every 10 years
Prevent Fires Caused by Smoking
- Do not smoke in bed- it is recommended not smoking indoors at all
- Do not smoke indoors if you have been consuming alcohol or if you are extremely tired
- Use deep ashtrays if smoking inside, do not dump hot ashes of cigarette butts in trash
- Do Not throw Cigarettes from Cars
- Do Not Throw cigarettes outside on ground especially during the dry season
Fire Extinguishers
- Fire Extinguishers should be in every households kitchen, basement, garage, and workshops
- Fire Extinguishers Class (ABC) are the recommended type for household use
- Make sure fire extinguishers are inspected and charged ready to use
- Learn how to use your fire extinguishers for small fires only, if fire is too big, call 911 and evacuate household
Prevent Electrical Fires
- DO NOT overload electrical outlets
Signs of overloading: (Lights dimming – Fuses blowing) - Do not use extinction cords indoors
- Keep an air space behind T.V., computer, and other devices to allow them to vent and not overheat
- If a electrical device is on fire, try to unplug the device if cord is not on fire or damaged
Other Fire Prevention Tips
- Never leave Dryer or washing machine running if your not home
- Keep Flammable objects away from fireplace or wood stove, make sure your chimney’s are maintained and clean
- Store gasoline and other flammable liquids outside or in a shed, NEVER bring gasoline inside your house
- NEVER Leave Candles burning Unattended
- Use candle holders, make sure flammable objects are clear from burning candles
Children
- Keep lighters and matches out of reach from children, preferable stored in a locked cabinet
- Do not leave children unattended near fire or space heaters
- Never leave children unattended in the kitchen
- Create an escape plan to evacuate household if a fire ever did occur
- Escape plan Tips:
- Find two ways out of every room and house
- Establish a meeting area outside of house
- Practice and know your escape plans
If your clothes ever catch on fire Remember Stop, Drop, and Roll
