Home fires are preventable! The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy.

Most Importantly:

  • Call 9-1-1 immediately in the event of fire or smoke.

  • Never use extension cords for portable heaters or any other appliances.

  • Follow the manufacturers use instructions when using portable or auxiliary heaters.

Cooking

  • Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time turn off the stove.

  • Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.

  • Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

  • Keep a fire extinguisher available.

Electrical and Appliance Safety

  • Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.

  • If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.

  • Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

Portable Space Heaters

  • Portable Space Heater Safety

  • Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from portable heating devices.

  • Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

  • Check to make the portable heater has a thermostat control mechanism and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.

  • Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene in kerosene heaters. Never overfill it. Use the heater in a well-ventilated room.

Fireplaces and Woodstoves

  • Inspect and clean woodstove pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.

  • Use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.

  • Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed.

Children

  • Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching children that fire is a tool, not a toy.

  • Store matches and lighters out of children’s reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet.

  • Never leave children unattended near operating stoves or burning candles, even for a short time.

More Prevention Tips

  • Never use a stove range or oven to heat your home.

  • Keep combustible and flammable liquids away from heat sources.

  • Portable generators should NEVER be used indoors and should only be refueled outdoors and in well ventilated areas.