Fire Safety Tips 

Home fires are often easily preventable tragedies. Educating yourself and your family is a key first step to preventing or surviving a household fire. Installing smoke detectors, practicing a home evacuation plan and learning proper use of a fire extinguisher are all easy and important steps every family should take.

Below are some key fire safety tips. 

• Install a minimum of one smoke detector outside every bedroom and in every sleeping area. If it’s a two story house install at least one per floor.
• Check your smoke detectors at least once a month and replace batteries one a year.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand and know how to use it.
• Create and practice a home evacuation plan.
• Keep all exits clear of clutter.
• Check that windows open and close easily.
• There should be at least two exits from every room.
• Never smoke in bed or when drowsy.
• Keep floor lamps at least 4 feet away from combustibles.
• If you have a fireplace keep a screen in place at all times, have chimney checked and cleaned periodically.
• If a gas heater is present, do not store flammable materials in the garage.
• Only store flammable materials in the proper containers.
• Keep matches and lighters away from children.
• Talk to your children about fire safety.
• Install a carbon monoxide detector if your home has gas appliances.
• Do not overload electrical outlets.
• Never leave burning candles unattended.
• Always stay in the kitchen when cooking.
• Keep towels and other flammable materials away from the stove.