Fire Safety

• Install smoke alarms on all levels of your home, both inside and outside of all bedrooms/sleeping areas.

• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month to ensure they are working.

• Replace smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

• Have a fire escape plan prepared and practice with everyone that lives in the home. This includes knowing two ways to get out of every room and having a designated meeting spot set outside of the home.

• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
   

Electrical Appliances, Cords, and Outlets

• Ensure electrical appliances are in good condition, without loose or frayed cords or plugs.

• Replace or professionally repair any appliances that spark, smell unusual, or overheat.

• Avoid overloading outlets with plugs from the TV, computer, video game systems, etc.

• Cover any outlets that are not in use with plastic safety covers if you have toddlers or young children in your home.

• Don't run electrical wires under rugs or across walking areas.

• Make sure lamps and night-lights are not touching bedspreads, drapes, or other fabrics.

• Use caution when using electric blankets.

• Check if 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.

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Kitchen Safety

• Don't let kids use kitchen appliances by themselves and always supervise the kitchen area when the stovetop is in use. Home cooking equipment is the leading cause of residential fires.

• Keep pan handles turned inwards, away from the edge of the stove to prevent it from being bumped and falling.

• Keep anything that can catch fire, such as towels or food packaging, away from the stove.