When the weather outside gets cold and icy, a fire can be quite inviting. For many, the scent of candles brings warmth to an occasion. However, as the tiny flames dance on top of the candlestick, it’s easy to forget how dangerous a fire can be. Under the right conditions, a rogue spark can burn down a room or even engulf an entire house! While prevention is key, having a plan in case of a fire is equally important. Here are some essential fire safety tips and planning strategies to keep your home and family safe.

Kitchen Safety

• Never leave your stove unattended while cooking.
• Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher in your kitchen near your stove.
• Avoid storing flammable items near stoves, ovens, or other heating appliances.
• Do not pour water on an oil/grease fire. Instead, cover the pan with a lid and turn off the stove.
• Clean the exhaust hood and duct over the stove monthly.

Candle Safety

• Never leave a candle unattended.
• Use sturdy candleholders that won’t fall over or burn.
• Burn candles on sturdy, uncluttered surfaces.

Portable Heater Safety

• Always supervise portable heaters and ensure they automatically shut off if tipped over.
• Keep children away from portable heaters.
• Maintain a safe distance of at least 3 1/2 feet from anything in the room.

Fireplace Safety

• Extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the house.
• Dispose of materials used to light or fuel the fire in non-flammable containers.
• Install a chimney spark arrestor cap to prevent roof fires.
• Have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year.

Clothes Dryer Safety

• Clean the lint screen after each load.
• Never leave the house with the clothes dryer running.
• Ensure dryers are vented outside and not within a wall or attic.

Smoke Detectors

• Install smoke detectors on every story of your home and outside bedrooms.
• Keep smoke detectors free from dust.
• Test every detector once a month.
• Replace batteries twice a year.
• Consider inexpensive detectors for the hearing impaired.
• Ensure the light on your smoke detector is blinking.

Have a Plan

You may not be able to prevent a fire, but planning can save lives. Here’s how to prepare:

• Plan an escape route ahead of an emergency. Ensure every family member knows the plan and where to meet once outside. Establish an easy-to-identify location and practice periodically.
• Familiarize everyone with stop, drop, and roll.
• Teach young children not to hide from fire or smoke.
• Emphasize that no one should return to a burning building.
• Contact emergency responders from a neighbor’s home.

By following these tips and having a solid plan, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire and ensure your family is prepared in case of an emergency. Stay safe!