Fire Prevention Tips for Your Home

Fire Prevention Tips for Your Home

Your home is one of the most expensive assets you own, which is why it is essential to protect your home against a possible fire. A fire can happen anywhere and at any time. Whether in a public place, a large building, or inside your home, it is important always to be aware of how fires can start and how you can prevent them from happening.

Here are some tips to prevent house fires:

• Test Your Smoke Alarms Regularly

  Smoke detectors are essential pieces of equipment to have in your home because they are your first line of defense against a house fire. If you are using a battery-operated smoke alarm, conduct a routine check on them every six months to ensure they are still working correctly.

• Unplug Items You Are Not Using

  The more electricity you have flowing through your home, the higher your risk of a house fire. Items like computers, TVs, gaming systems, and appliances use a lot of electricity even when they are not turned on. This means they are always at risk of experiencing a surge or overheating and causing a fire. Unplug these items when you are not using them to reduce your chance of fire.

• Turn Off Appliances When You Leave the House

  Appliances use a lot of heat and energy, even when you aren't using them. Be sure not to leave heated appliances on when you leave the house because they can easily catch fire.

• Ensure Your Heating Devices are Working Properly

  Heating equipment is one of the top causes of house fires in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Space heaters, central heating systems, and fireplaces commonly cause fires when left unattended. Be sure always to be home when you are running these pieces of equipment, and be sure to have a professional check on them annually to ensure they are working correctly.

• Use Surge Protectors

  If you have many different devices plugged into outlets around your home, ensure that all your electronics are plugged into surge protectors. A surge in power is a frequent culprit of house electrical fires. Reduce this risk by investing in surge protectors so you do not have to worry about excess electricity getting into the device, which can ultimately cause a fire.

• Clean Your Stove and Oven

  Be sure to clean the food buildup off your stove and oven frequently to ensure that a fire does not start due to dirty appliances. Many ranges have a self-cleaning function, but you still want to clean these items every few months to help prevent a fire.

• Never Leave Flames Unattended

  If you are using candles, cooking on the stove, or using any other type of flame or heating device, be sure to watch it at all times. Never walk away from the stove or leave the house with a candle still lit. Keeping an eye on these types of flames will help ensure that you are there to stop a fire from occurring if the flame gets out of control.

• Check Your Dryer's Airflow

  Dryer fires are common in homes around the United States due to clogged vents or a filter buildup that could cause a fire. This situation is highly preventable if you get your dryer frequently inspected, clean your lint trap after each use, and check for small clothing items that may get stuck at the back of the machine.

• Do Not Smoke in the House

  If you are a smoker, be responsible and do not smoke inside your house. Smoke in a well-ventilated area and always completely put out the cigarette before you throw it away. Cigarettes have a lot of added materials inside of them that continue to burn after you think you have put them out. Throwing a cigarette inside a trashcan in your home can put you at significant risk for a fire.

• Store Flammable Products in a Safe Space

  We use many common products daily that can classify as flammable products. When they are too close to a heat source, they can combust and cause a fire. Always check the labels of items you purchase and know which ones are prone to catch fire when exposed to heat. Store these products in a cool, dry place.

• Be Cautious with Candles

  Candles are popular products used in households, but if you do not use them carefully, they can be a major cause of house fires. Always put the candles out before leaving a room and place them in a spot far away from objects that can catch fire easily.

• Clear away Clutter

  Fires can start spontaneously and spread excessively if your home is cluttered. Be sure to keep your home tidy and eliminate any clutter you may have. Keeping your home clean and free of clutter will help reduce the risk of a home fire and make it easier to control if a fire does start.

• Change Lint Filters

  Most appliances use a filter to run correctly, so it is important to change and clean your filters frequently to ensure that fires are not started due to the lint that may build up over time. Always remove the lint from your dryer every time you use it as this is a common cause of house fires.

• Get Your Furnace Checked

  Be sure to clean the food buildup off your stove and oven frequently to ensure that a fire does not start due to dirty appliances. Many ovens have a self-cleaning function, but you still want to clean these items every few months to help prevent a fire.

• Invest in a Fire Extinguisher

  Fire extinguishers are important to have in your home because they can save lives and help put out fires quickly and efficiently. They also provide homeowners with a feeling of safety if a fire starts. Position one fire extinguisher in an accessible area on each floor of your home, as well as in your kitchen and laundry room, as these are high-risk areas in your house.

Your home is important to you. Always protect your home against house fires to ensure you and your family are safe.