Fire Safe Home
Take a few minutes to walk through your home and use the following checklist (PDF) to make sure your home is fire-safe.
Alternative Heaters
- Use heaters only in well-ventilated rooms.
- Place heaters where they will not be knocked over easily.
- Do not use heaters to dry clothing or other items.
- Keep heaters at a safe distance from curtains, furniture, and all combustibles.
Kerosene Heaters
- Kerosene heaters are illegal to use in a residence.
- Fill only with K-1 kerosene and never use gasoline or camp stove fuel.
- Refuel kerosene heaters outdoors and when they're cool.
Wood Stoves & Fireplaces
- Only use seasoned wood and never use green wood, artificial logs, or trash.
- Always use a protective screen.
- Clean interiors, hearths, and chimneys yearly.
Safe Cooking Practices
- Don't leave food unattended on the stove.
- Keep dangling clothing away from burners.
- Keep appliances clean and free of grease and crumbs.
- Keep curtains and other combustibles away from the stove.
- Make sure the stove is off and small appliances are unplugged before going to bed.
Smoke Detectors
- Place smoke detectors in every bedroom and hallways outside bedrooms.
- Test the batteries monthly.
- Change batteries when you change your clocks at Daylight Savings Time.
- Place smoke detectors at least four to six inches away from walls and corners.
- Keep away from bathrooms and kitchens to prevent false alarms.
Electrical Wiring
- Replace wiring if it's frayed or cracked.
- Do not place wiring under rugs, over nails, or in high traffic areas.
- Avoid overloading outlets and make sure they stay cool to the touch.
- Keep covers over electric plates and avoid exposed wiring.
Electric Space Heaters
- Plug heaters directly into the wall socket and not into extension cords.
- Unplug heaters when they're not being used.
Safe Smoking Habits
- Never smoke in bed.
- Keep ashtrays away from upholstered furniture and curtains.
- Always attend burning cigarettes.
Children & Fire Safety
- Keep lighters and matches away from children.
- Teach children how to call for emergency assistance (911).
- Use safety plugs in electrical outlets.
Home Fire Escape Plan
- Have an escape plan and make sure all family members know it.
- Practice the plan every six months.
- Keep emergency numbers, a whistle, and a flashlight near the telephone.
- Identify an outside meeting place and never return into a burning building.
- Know how to call for emergency assistance (911).
Fire Safety Technology
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy, especially in the kitchen.
- Consider installing residential fire sprinklers.