The Top 10 Fire Safety Tips You Need To Know

Our homes are often the most important thing we own. When it comes to safety, one can never be too careful, especially when it comes to your home and family. Each year, hundreds of home fires occur due to carelessness and negligence on the part of the home owners. To keep your house safe, here is a Top Ten Fire Safety Tip List to help you keep your home and family safe from a devastating fire:

1. Install at least two smoke detectors on each level of your home. Smoke detectors save hundreds of lives each year due to the warning mechanisms. It is important to closely follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing your smoke detectors.

2. Regularly maintain and test your smoke detectors. It is easy to forget to replace the smoke alarm batteries. Most detectors will emit a chirping sound when the batteries are getting low, but once the chirping stops, it is dangerously easy to simply forget about it.

3. Regularly walk through your home and look specifically for fire hazards. You should look for hazards such as frayed or torn cords to electrical devices (the television, stereo system, lamps or computers, for example), extension cords in high traffic areas, or space heaters too close to flammable items (such as clothing, fabric, books, magazines or old newspapers).

4. Keep your matches and lighters out of reach of children. Children are fascinated with fire, and their curiosity can often get them into trouble. Simply remove the temptation by keeping your matches and lighters hidden or locked away in a drawer or cabinet.

5. Always exercise caution and care when cooking or baking in the kitchen. Many home fires begin in the kitchen. The best defense in the kitchen is to simply be aware of what is going on at all times. When things are left unattended, there is a chance they will begin to burn. If you are aware of what is going on, this can easily be avoided.

6. Plan a fire exit plan for each member of the family, and practice it regularly. Having an escape plan can help family members escape quickly and safely, in case a fire occurs.

7. Use caution when you light candles. Candles can easily catch other things on fire if one is not careful. Always place them in a protective holder (such as a votive), and always blow out the candle when leaving the room.

8. Always unplug electronic devices and appliances after using them. Plugged-in appliances and electronic devices are a fire hazard when no one around.

9. If you have a fireplace or wood burning stove you use often in the winter, make sure it is properly cleaned each season.

10. Teach you children fire safety. As children are the next generation, it is important to teach them the dangers of fire and the importance of exercising fire safety practices daily. This way, they will help you and your family stay safe.

Homes present many fire hazards. As you practice fire safety each day, you are helping protect your home and family from a devastating fire. Remember, when the well being of your family is concerned, it is always better to be safe than sorry!