Fire Safety

In 2011 fire departments responded to 370,000 home structure fires

Main Topics Common fire hazards Ways to reduce fire risk Fire safety and escape plans

Common Fire Hazards

Living Room Fire place Space heater Extension chords

Bedroom Heating blankets Extension cords Smoking in bed

Bathroom Light bulbs Hot appliances Candles

Kitchen Most common place for fires Unattended items cooking Loose clothing Appliance chords

Basement Water heater/furnace Clothes dryer Outlet overload

Ways to Reduce Fire Risk

Power Cords and Outlets Extension cord capacity should match appliance Do not use as permanent wiring Cover unused outlets with safety caps Do not plug multiple extension cords together

Candles Never touch or move lit candle Never touch recently used candle Keep 1 foot away from flammable items Never leave burning when you leave home Keep out of reach from children

Water Heater & Furnace Should have yearly maintenance Keep items at least 3 feet away

Fire Place & Chimney Have chimney cleaned yearly by professional Make sure the fire place flue fully opens and closes Keep flammables at least 3 feet away

Dryer Clean dryer filter after every load Never dry things that have been in contact with flammable liquids Have gas-powered dryers inspected yearly by professional

Fire Safety & Escape Planning

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors Should have smoke detector on each floor and outside of every bedroom Test smoke alarms monthly Keep clear of dust Replace batteries once a year

Fire Extinguisher Have at least one P-A-S-S

Fire Escape Plan Know several ways to exit the home Have safe meeting point established Practice plan often

Review Remember common fire hazards Follow ways to reduce fire risk Have fire safety and escape plan More information