Minimize Your Risks: Fire Home Safety

To help minimize these risks of home fires, consider the following safety tips.

Cooking Safety: Stay alert when cooking; never throw water on a grease fire. Supervise your cooking by staying in the kitchen while frying, grilling or boiling food, and check on dishes that are simmering, baking, or roasting. Remember to keep flammable items far from the stovetop.

Heating Safety: Maintain a safe distance by keeping flammable items at least three feet away from heaters, stoves and fireplaces. Always turn off heaters, and ensure that fireplace embers are completely out when leaving the room. When using space heaters, place them on stable, nonflammable surfaces and keep them away from children and pets.

General Fire Prevention: Involves several key practices. First, ensure campfire safety by following local regulations, maintaining a safe distance from flammable materials, and fully extinguishing fires before leaving. Regularly inspect electrical cords for fraying or damage, replacing any that are faulty. To further reduce fire risks, opt for flameless candles instead of traditional ones. Finally, secure matches and lighters in a locked cabinet out of children's reach to prevent accidents.

Smoke Alarms: Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and outside bedrooms. Test them monthly, replace batteries annually, and remember to replace alarms that are older than 10 years.

Escape Planning: Create an escape plan by drawing a map of your home with two exit routes from each room and designating a safe meeting place outside. Practice these drills regularly, at least twice a year, so everyone knows how to escape safely and what to do if their clothes catch fire.

Using Fire Extinguishers: If you're unsure about using a fire extinguisher, prioritize safety: evacuate immediately and call 9-1-1. Make sure everyone is out of the house, inform the fire department, and only attempt to use an extinguisher if the fire is small and contained. By following these tips and being prepared, you can significantly reduce your risk of a fire in your home.

Watch the video below for more about kitchen fire safety.

Source: National Safety Council