Use Fire-Resistant Building Materials: If possible, install fire-resistant roofing, siding, and insulation, particularly if you live in a wildfire-prone area.
Practice Safe Cooking Habits: Never leave cooking unattended, and keep flammable items (towels, paper, etc.) away from the stove. Use a timer to avoid forgetting about food on the stovetop or in the oven. Turn cookware handles inward to prevent spilling.
Store Flammable Liquids Safely: Keep gasoline, paints, and other flammable liquids in tightly sealed containers in well-ventilated areas, ideally outside the home.
Check Electrical Systems Regularly: Avoid overloading outlets, replace damaged cords, and have an electrician inspect wiring if you experience frequent blown fuses or tripped circuits.
Clean Dryer Vents: Lint buildup in dryer vents is a common fire hazard. Clean the lint trap after each use and have the vent duct professionally cleaned annually.
Use Candles Responsibly: If you use candles, place them on stable surfaces, away from curtains or flammable materials, and never leave them unattended. Consider using flameless, battery-operated candles as a safer alternative.
Practice Safe Heating Habits: Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from curtains, furniture, and bedding. Turn off heaters when leaving the room or going to sleep.
Fire Safety Equipment
Install Fire Extinguishers: Keep at least one multi-purpose fire extinguisher in accessible areas, such as the kitchen, garage, and near exits. Ensure family members know how to use it.
Use Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can lead to poisoning and fires. Install CO detectors near sleeping areas and check them regularly.
Have a Fire Escape Ladder: For multi-story homes, invest in fire escape ladders, especially in upper-level bedrooms. Practice using them as part of fire drills.
Fire Preparedness and Planning
Create an Evacuation Plan: Draw a floor plan showing all exit points and at least two escape routes from each room. Ensure everyone in the household knows the plan.
Designate a Meeting Point: Pick a spot a safe distance away from the house where everyone can meet after evacuating, such as a neighbor’s driveway or a nearby tree.
Practice Fire Drills: Conduct fire drills twice a year, including at night, so everyone knows how to react in different situations.
Stop, Drop, and Roll: Ensure all family members, especially children, understand to stop, drop to the ground, and roll if their clothing catches fire.
Share Emergency Numbers: Make sure everyone knows the local emergency number and has it saved on their phones. It’s also helpful to have a list of contacts, including neighbors and family members.
Outdoor and Seasonal Tips
Clear Debris Around the Home: Clear dry leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters, roofs, and around the foundation. Maintain a defensible space around the home to reduce wildfire risk.
Safely Store Firewood: Keep firewood at least 30 feet away from the house, as it can act as fuel in case of a fire.
Exercise Caution with Outdoor Fires: Keep fire pits and grills away from your home, overhangs, and dry vegetation. Fully extinguish outdoor fires before going inside.
Check Holiday Decorations: For holiday lighting, use lights labeled for safe indoor or outdoor use and turn off lights and decorations when going to sleep or leaving the house.