Fire Safety: How to prepare and protect your home from a fire

There are many things in your home that pose the risk of starting a fire, even accidentally. Here are some simple, proactive things you can do do lower your risk of being victim to a house fire:

• Install and maintain smoke alarms in kitchen, laundry room, garage, and in each bedroom.

• Test smoke alarms every month and replace batteries twice a year-when you change your clocks in the Fall and Spring.

• Replace smoke alarms after 10 years of service.

• Install a fire extinguisher and learn how to use it.

• Don't leave burning candles unattended and be sure to extinguish cigarettes fully.
  Stay away from pools, lakes, or other large bodies of water.

• Ensure electrical wiring and extension cords don't run under rugs, over nails, or in high traffic areas, and that they are replaced if frayed or cracked.

• Keep matches and lighters away from children.
• Store paint thinners and gasoline in regulation containers away from heat sources.
• Use outlet surge protectors for electronic equipment.
• Portable electric heaters should have safety-certification label from a testing organization, such as UL (Underwriting Laboratories), and should be turned off when you are asleep or not at home.
• Keep all objects at least 3 feet away from space heater.
• Have fireplace and chimney cleaned and inspected annually. Add a secure screen to your fireplace.
• Keep stairways clear.
• Ensure all windows can be opened easily.
• If you have double-cylinder deadbolts on your doors, keep the keys where all family members can quickly reach them in the event of fire.
• Clean dryer vent regularly and lint filter after each use.
• Clean range hoods and vents regularly.
• Install individual shut-off valves for gas appliances.
• Consider installing a central station fire alarm. We offer significant discounts for homes protected by alarm systems and/or automatic fire sprinklers.
• Prepare and regularly update a Home Inventory List, photographing or videotaping the contents of every room, including the garage, for your records. Keep these records off the premises or in a safety deposit box.

Related resources:

• Fire Safety Checklist
• Smoke Alarm Safety
• Fire Escape Plan