Home Fire Safety and Prevention

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Within our own homes, we all have a responsibility to minimize the risk of a fire destroying our property and possessions. Following some of the tips on our home fire safety checklist could help to make the difference and save your house from the devastating effects of a fire.

Home Fire Safety Checklist

• Do Your Smoke Detectors Work?
  The most important first step to take is to ensure you have working smoke detectors. Check the batteries regularly and make sure that all family members, including children, know what they sound like.

• Do You Have an Evacuation Plan?
  Each member of your family should know how to evacuate from every room. This should include two evacuation routes; in case one is blocked.

         Do You Have Fire Extinguishers?

• Having fire extinguishers placed around the home is key to minimize the risk of a fire taking hold. Having at least one on each floor of your home is a good idea.

• Are You Cautious When Cooking?
  Never leave anything cooking on the stove unattended. If you leave the kitchen, turn off the stove.

• Do You Restrict Smoking to Outside?
  Always smoke outside the house and put out any cigarettes when finished. Avoid smoking inside the home, especially in bed. Mattresses and bedding are highly flammable.

• Do You Know How to Prevent Electrical Fires?
  Ensure you’re not using any electrical appliances that have frayed wires and never run cords under furniture. If you notice any electrical problems, such as hot light switches, turn them off and have them professionally replaced.

• Is Your Property Child-Safe?
  Make sure that all lighters, matches, etc. are kept out of the reach of children. Keep children away from lit candles and stoves and teach them of the dangers of fire.

• Do You Have Fuel Lying Around?
  You may not think of piles of books, newspapers, blankets etc. as being fuel, but in the event of a fire they can be. Make sure you don’t have any of these lying around.