10 Ways to Prevent Home Fires

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

A fire in your home does not only damage your property, it also hurts you and your family. U.S. fire departments responded to 365,500 house fires in 2015.The most common causes of house fires are heating systems, cooking, tobacco smoking, dryers, and electrical issues.

Here are 10 ways you can help prevent a fire from starting in your home:

• Dryers - The lint should be cleaned out from dryers after each use. Dryer vents should also be inspected and cleaned at least once a year, more depending on how often you use the dryer.

• Heaters - Heating systems are in high-use during the winter months. These should be inspected annually to make sure that they’re in good, operating condition.

• Alternative Heat Sources - Alternative heat sources such as space heaters should not have items near it that may easily catch fire.

• Watch What You Cook - Do not leave your stove or oven unattended when you are cooking. Make sure to keep the stove area clean of grease so that this doesn’t ignite a fire.

• Electrical - Check electrical cords for signs of fraying. Never overload an electrical outlet or plug.

• Lighters and Matches - Keep lighters and matches out of the reach of children.
• Candles - If you use scented candles at night, make sure to blow them out before going to bed.

• Chimneys - These should be inspected annually by a chimney professional.  
• Smoke Alarm - Check your smoke alarms to make sure they’re working and replace batteries as needed.
• Escape Plan - Establish a fire escape plan for you and your family members (try to have one that is easy for children to understand). Make sure that nothing blocks the escape routes.