Fire Safety


Residential fires claim the lives of 3,600 people each year and injure 18,500 more - and kids younger than 5 are at greatest risk. Would you know what to do if a fire started in your home? Would your child?


Fire Prevention

  • Are your electrical appliances in good condition, without loose or frayed cords or plugs?
  • Are your outlets overloaded with plugs from the TV, computer, printer, video game system, and stereo?
  • Are you overusing an extension cord?
  • Do the light fixtures in your home contain bulbs that are the correct wattage?
  • Does your home contain GFCIs (ground-fault circuit interrupters) and/or AFCIs (arc-fault circuit interrupters), which prevent electrical shock and fire by shutting off faulty circuits?
  • Don't run electrical wires under rugs.
  • Make sure lamps and night-lights are not touching bedspreads, drapes, or other fabrics.
  • Cover any outlets that are not in use with plastic safety covers if you have toddlers or young children in your home.
  • Be especially vigilant about portable heaters
  • Be careful in the kitchen
  • Check out the fireplace
  • Use candles safely
  • Be aware of holiday dangers - Xmas lights


    • Household Tips

  • Make sure all smoke alarms are in working order
  • Keep fire extinguishers handy
  • Plan escape routes
  • Teach children the facts about fire
  • Stop, Drop, and Roll to extinguish flames if an article of clothing catches on fire
  • Crawl under the smoke to safety, staying as low to the ground as possible (smoke always rises)
  • Practice fire drills at home