The summer months may be behind us, but the importance of fire safety in your home is more imminent than ever. October 9th marks Fire Prevention day, a tradition stemming from the Great Chicago Fire that occurred 144 years ago on this exact day. Although this campaign comes once a year, fire safety should be practiced every day to protect your home, valuables and the people that live in it. Did you know in 2014, the United States Fire Department responded to a house fire every 83 seconds? It is proven that the best way to prevent a fire in your home is to recognize and eliminate fire hazards.
Fire by Cooking
The leading cause of home fires is and has been cooking. The kitchen is where magical meals are made but two out of five home fires occur here. When frying, grilling, or broiling food it is important to always be present in the kitchen. Even if you leave for a split second, be sure to turn the stove off. As far as longer methods of cooking, such as baking and roasting, make sure to stay in the house and set a timer to remind you to tend to your cooking food. Make sure to keep cooking items such as pot holders, paper towels, and aprons away from the stove because they are flammable. Kids and our four-legged furry friends should also stay far from the kitchen and countertops to avoid knowing something into a flame.
Fire By Heating
In the fall and winter the temperature cools down, but the heating equipment in your home is blazing up! Flammable objects and children should be kept at least three feet away from heating equipment such as a furnace, fireplace, or portable space heater. All equipment should be installed by a certified technician and inspected and cleaned every year. Make sure your fireplace has a screen around it to catch escaping ashes and embers.
Fire By Electrical
Nowadays everything made is electric, which increases the chance for a home fire. It is important to repair or replace electrical outlets that are loose or damaged. Never overload outlets, and stick to one high voltage appliance to each outlet. Lamps should be placed on a smooth surface away from flammable items like curtains. Make sure the bulb placed in the lamp matches the lamps recommended wattage. The use of extension cords is not advised, but in the case they are used be sure not to route them under carpet or doorways.
Fire by Smoking Materials
Smoking materials include cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc. and are the leading cause of fire deaths. If you smoke, do so outdoors. If you must smoke inside, always do so alert. Never smoke in the house when sleepy, in bed, have been drinking or on medication. Invest in a deep, wide ashtray that is placed on a sturdy table. Keep all lighters and matches put away and out of the reach of children. When putting out cigarettes always make sure the butt is out and douse with water to be on the safe side. If you smoke, consider choosing fire-safe cigarettes that decrease the chance of home fires.
Fire by Candle
Candles bring lovely scents to our living spaces, but the smell of smoke is one we do not want to invite in. Candles should burn only in your presence, so blow them out when you leave the room or are going to bed. Use a sturdy candle holder to avoid tipping over, and place on a flat, uncluttered surface. Always place your candle at least 12 feet away from anything flammable, as this causes nearly 3 in 5 home candle fires. Use caution when lighting and make sure all clothing and hair are away from the flame.
The best way to prevent home fires from happening is to know what causes them. Prevention can decrease the chances of a home fire, but accidents do happen and in that case, fast action and a plan can save lives. Smoke alarms are essential to your home and should be installed on every floor, bedroom, and living area. It is also important for all members in the household to know a fire escape plan, and know how to exit each room should a fire breakout. Remember fire safety fundamental– stop, drop and roll and call 911.
What are some ways you prevent fires in your home? Share in the comments below!
