Home Fire Safety

Smoke Alarms:

Working Smoke Alarms save lives!

  • Make sure you have a WORKING smoke alarm on every level of your home and in each sleeping area.
  • Test your smoke alarms monthly.
  • Smoke alarms that do not have self-encased batteries need to have the battery replaced AT LEAST annually.
  • Replace any smoke alarm that is older than 10 years.
Chimneys:

75% of chimney fires are caused by creosote buildup!

  • Keep chimneys clear and vented. A dirty chimney builds up creosote deposits that can easily catch a wayward spark and cause a home fire.
  • Always make sure your chimney flue is open before you start your fire.
Bathroom Exhaust:

Bathroom exhaust fans can cause extensive fire damage in your home.

  • If you have a bathroom exhaust fan in your home, clean it twice a year, and if it starts to make noises or smells odd, it's time to replace it.
  • Always remember to turn off your fan before you leave your home.
 Electrical: 

Electrical malfunction is the leading cause of home fires year after year

  • Check your electrical cords. If they are cracked or damaged, replace them. Don't try to repair them.
  • Extension cords are intended for temporary use only. Do not use them for a permanent solution.
 Unattended Cooking:

Forgetting you are cooking is the top reason for kitchen fires.

  • Set a timer or alarm to remind you that there is something cooking.
  • Never put water on a grease fire. Cover the pan with a lid and turn off the stove.
 Careless Smoking:

Smoking is a leading cause of home fire deaths.

  • Always use a sturdy ashtray set on a hard surface
  • PUT IT OUT, ALL THE WAY, EVERY TIME!

Practice Fire Safety Every Day!

 Family Meeting Place:

Less than 1/4 of families have put together and practiced a home escape plan.

  • Make sure everyone knows where the family meeting place is and you have PRACTICED your home escape plan.
  • Never go back inside once you have made it to your meeting place.