Installation of Smoke Detectors
- Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside every sleeping area
- A hard wired system so the signal can be heard throughout the house is best
- If you opt for battery operated smoke alarms, be sure to check the batteries regularly and replace them semi-annually.
Fire Extinguishers
- A-B-C type fire extinguishers should be placed in the kitchen, furnace room, garage and laundry
Fire Escape Plan
- Make sure there are two ways out of your home for everyone
- Make sure to have an escape ladder for second floor bedrooms
- Have a designated meeting place for the family in the event of a fire
- Once out of the house, stay out until the fire department arrives
- Make sure your house number is visible and driveway is accessible to emergency vehicles
- Your babysitter, nanny and/or housekeeper should know the escape plan
- Teach everyone to Get Out, Stay Out in the event of a fire
- Call 911 immediately
Electrical Systems
- If your electrical system uses fuses, aluminum wiring or knob & tub wiring, they may not be adequate for the many electronic devices found in a home today
- Have a licensed electrician inspect the system and upgrade as needed
- If you must use extension cords, do not overload or hide under rugs
Fireplaces
- Install a chimney cap to control flying embers onto the roof
- Always use a fire screen or glass door to keep the fire inside the fireplace
- Burn only seasoned hardwood to reduce the potential for creosote buildup
- Have chimneys & fireplaces professionally inspected/cleaned before each heating season
- When you remove fireplace ashes, they should be placed in a metal container and removed from the house
Furnace/Potable Heater/Wood Stove/Grills
- Have a professional inspect and clean your furnace on a yearly basis
- Keep portable space heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable objects, such as window treatments, furniture and bedding.
- Do not use extension cords to power the unit
- Check for scorch marks from baseboard heaters on interior walls
- Follow all local building codes and manufacturer’s instructions when installing a wood stove
- Gas and charcoal grills should be at least 8 feet from exterior walls
- Never use an outside grill inside the home or garage
Steps You Can Take Now
- Keep candles away from drapes, upholstered furniture, and other flammable items
- Rags, clothing and materials used during wood or deck staining or refinishing can spontaneously combust and are a major fire hazard
- Immerse used rags & clothing into water in a metal container & seal with air tight lid
- After soaking, fully air dry by laying them flat on a non-combustible surface
- Store cleaned rags in an open metal container and keep them in a well-ventilated area away from any heat source
