As the air gets cooler and seasonal activities begin, it’s important to keep fire safety top of mind. The following tips can help you protect your home, family, and community during the fall season.
Check and Maintain Smoke Alarms
Install Smoke Alarms: Make sure you have working smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of your home, including the basement.
Test Monthly: Press the test button to ensure alarms are functioning. Alarms that are over 10 years old or fail to respond to testing should be replaced.
Battery Care: With colder weather, many people start using heaters. Change smoke alarm batteries regularly to stay prepared.
Heater and Fireplace Safety
Keep a Safe Distance: Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves.
Screen Your Fireplace: If using a fireplace, always use a safety screen to prevent sparks from igniting nearby items.
Inspect and Clean: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually to reduce the risk of chimney fires.
Cooking with Care
Stay in the Kitchen: With holiday meals around the corner, remember to stay near your stove when cooking. Unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires.
Watch Kids and Pets: Keep children and pets away from the stove and hot surfaces to prevent accidents.
Use Timers: Set timers when cooking multiple dishes to prevent food from burning or catching fire.
Outdoor Fire and Yard Maintenance
Clean Up Leaves and Debris: Dry leaves can easily ignite, so clear them away from your home, especially around decks, gutters, and outdoor heating equipment.
Safe Fire Pit Use: If you’re using a fire pit, make sure it’s a safe distance from your home and any overhanging trees. Fully extinguish fires before leaving them unattended.
Proper Disposal: After using a grill, fire pit, or fireplace, safely dispose of ashes and embers. Cool them thoroughly in water and store in a metal container.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Review Your Family's Fire Escape Plan: This is a great time to review your fire escape routes and meeting points with everyone in the household.
Practice Your Drill: Run through the escape plan to ensure everyone knows how to get out quickly and safely.
Prepare Your Emergency Kit: With potential power outages in colder months, check that your emergency kit is stocked with essentials, including flashlights, batteries, and first-aid supplies.
