How To Prevent Home Fires

General Fire Safety

• Never leave burning candles unattended. Candles should be placed on sturdy surfaces out of reach of children and pets.
• Avoid smoking inside of your home.
• Flammable objects should be kept at least three feet away from candles, grills, stovetops and any other sources of heat.

Fire Safety Equipment

• Routinely change the batteries in your smoke alarms, even if they aren't chirping to signal a low battery.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home.
• Keep a few fire extinguishers around your home, and ensure that everyone knows how to use them.

Kitchen Concerns

• Because of cooking appliances, most home fires ignite in the kitchen — primarily around the stovetop. Keep towels, paper products and other flammable items far away from heat.
• If a pot or pan catches fire, turn off the heat and put a lid over the fire until it's extinguished. Do not try to move it or douse it with water.
• If a fire ignites inside the oven, turn off the heat and leave the door closed until the fire is extinguished.
• You may need to turn on a fan or open a window if smoke from cooking is triggering a smoke alarm. Do not dismantle the smoke alarm.