How to prevent a fire...

8/17/2017 (Permalink)

Now that you know what to do in an actual fire, you should know how to prevent one from happening. Here are some top tips:

• Install fire alarms and smoke detectors. Early warning systems can help you get control of a fire before it spirals out of control. Smoke detectors can also help you get out safely. Install a smoke alarm on every level and in every room of your home, and test each alarm once a month to make sure it’s working.
• Teach children the basics of fire safety and how to prevent, prepare for, and deal with a fire.
• Always keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.
• Keep flammable items at least three feet away from anything hot. (e.g., fireplaces, space heaters, and ovens).
• Only smoke outside.
• Stay in the kitchen. When you’re cooking, always stay nearby in case something catches fire.
• Turn off appliances. Remember to shut off your stove when you’re done cooking.
• Extinguish controlled fires completely. This includes fireplace fires and those in fire pits in the backyard.
• Spray down surrounding areas before having an outdoor fire. If you live in a dry climate, don’t start a fire outdoors. If you do, make sure to spray down the surrounding area in case a spark lands outside of your fire pit.
• Learn about electrical fires. Electrical fires are an entirely different beast. To learn more about them, read “How to prevent electrical fires.”