There were 379,500 residential structure fires reported in 2020.
A fire coming from home is the second highest leading cause of death in the United States. It is only behind motor vehicle accidents.
The intensity of the fire and the amount of property damage it causes makes it a total disaster for homeowners. This is why, if you don’t want to fall victim to fire, you ought to take some time to learn about house fire prevention tips.
Read through to discover how you can prevent your home from burning down.
1. Make Sure Your Smoke Alarms are Functional
Smoke alarms are your first line of fire safety defense against a fire. The early warning of a fire can help in preventing a house fire from getting bigger. Here are some tips for keeping your smoke alarms in good working order:
- Test your smoke alarms monthly to ensure they are working
- Vacuum around your smoke alarms to keep them free of dust and debris
- Replace the batteries in your smoke alarms every year
- Make sure you have mounted your smoke alarms on the ceiling or wall
- Keep your smoke alarms free of obstructions
- Don’t disable your smoke alarms
- You should replace smoke alarms every ten years
2. Check Your Heating Equipment
Improper maintenance of heating equipment can lead to a house fire. A qualified professional should check most heating equipment at least once a year. Some tips to keep your heating equipment in top condition and prevent fires include:
- Have your heating system, including the flue and chimney, inspected and serviced by a qualified professional
- Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from all heating equipment
- Never use your oven to heat your home
- Don’t overload electrical outlets; never plug more than one heat-producing appliance into an outlet
- Make sure all portable heaters have an automatic shut-off feature
- Inspect and clean wood-burning fireplace inserts and stove pipes yearly
- Don’t use kerosene or propane heaters indoors
3. Make Sure Your Cooking Area Is Clean
Grease and oil build-up in the cooking area can cause a fire. It’s essential to keep your cooking area clean. Here are the top tips for fire prevention in the kitchen:
- Wipe up any spills immediately, and don’t allow grease to build up
- Keep the area around your stove clear and don’t store anything on the stovetop or in the oven
- If you’re cooking, stay in the kitchen
- Don’t wear loose clothing as long sleeves and loose clothing can catch fire
- Keep pot handles turned in so you won’t knock them over
- Clean your oven and exhaust fans as grease and dust can build up and cause a fire
4. Check Your Electrical System
Your electrical system is one of the essential components of your home, so it’s important to check it for any potential problems. Here are some tips to prevent your electrical system from causing house fires:
- Check your electrical cords and plugs for any signs of damage
- Avoid overloading outlets by plugging in too many devices
- Unplug electrical devices when they’re not in use
- Use surge protectors to protect your electronics from power spikes
- Don’t use extension cords for heavy electrical loads
- Keep flammable materials away from any heat sources
- Be careful when using space heaters, and place them away from flammable materials
5. Invest in a Fire Extinguisher or a Water Sprinkler System
To protect your home from fire, you should invest in a fire extinguisher or a water sprinkler system. Both of these systems can help to put out a fire before it has a chance to spread. Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing a system:
- Make sure that the system you choose is appropriate for the size of your home
- Choose a system that is easy to use and maintain
- Be sure to test the system to ensure it is working
- Keep the system accessible so you can use it in the event of a fire
- Make sure that everyone in your household knows how to use the system
- Store the system in a safe place to avoid damage by heat or smoke
- Have a professional inspect the system to ensure it is in good working condition
6. Keep Flammable Items Away From Children
Children are often attracted to fire and may not understand the dangers of playing with matches or lighters. If you have any flammable liquids or other items in your home, ensure they are stored where children cannot reach them. You should also teach your children about the dangers of fire and what to do if they see one.
In addition, Never leave children unattended near operating appliances such as stoves, irons, hair dryers, or curling irons. These appliances can become fire hazards if not used properly.
Teach children to stop, drop, and roll if their clothes catch on fire. This simple technique can save lives.
7. Have an Escape Plan in Case of Fire
Having an escape plan allows you and your family to get out of the house quickly in the event of a fire. When creating your fire safety plan, include a primary and secondary escape route from each room in your house. Draw a map of your home with all doors and windows, and ensure everyone knows at least two ways to get out of each room.
If a smoke alarm sounds, leave the house immediately and go to your outdoor meeting place. Once you’re out, stay out. Never go back inside a burning building.
Investing in home insurance can offer a lot of financial assistance in case of a fire. The claims you make can help with the repairs or in getting a new home. Check out this home insurance company to know more about the benefits that they offer.
Keep Your Family Safe From Fire
These house fire prevention tips can minimize the fire risk in your home. Ensure your smoke alarms are working in every room and test them. Keep flammable items like lighters and matches out of reach of children.
Keep your fireplace and chimney clean and in good working order. Check your electrical system and ensure that your cooking area is clean.
Following these tips can help prevent a house fire from happening in your home.
Please visit our blog if you’re interested in more tips and advice!
