Home Fire Safety

Fires and burns continue to be a major cause of unintentional injury death at home. Particularly at risk are the very young and the very old.

Download the Home Fire Safety Checklist

Fire Facts

Provided by the U.S. Fire Administration, National Safety Council, and National Fire Protection Association

• 84% of all fire deaths occur in the home. Bedrooms are the leading location at 55% and they occur between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
• Smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths.
• Having a working smoke detector more than doubles one's chances of surviving a fire.
• Almost three of five (60%) of reported home fire deaths in 2007 to 2011 resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
• In 2010, adults age 45 or older had a greater relative risk of dying in fires that the general population. The elderly age 85 or older had the highest risk of fire death. The relative risk of fire injury was greatest for the 20 to 59 year olds, peaking for the 30 to 34 year olds. Males were 1.5 times more likely to die in fires than females.
• Only one-third of Americans have both developed and practiced a home fire escape plan.
• In 2011, U.S. fire departments responded to 370,000 home structure fires. These fires caused 13,910 civilian injuries, 2,520 civilian deaths, and $6.9 billion in direct damage.
• On average, seven people died in U.S. home fires per day from 2007 to 2011.
• Most fatal fires kill one or two people. In 2012, 8 home fires killed five or more people resulting in a total of 44 deaths.
• Cooking is a leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, followed by heating equipment.

Children Playing With Fire Facts/Safety Tips

Provided by the National Fire Protection Association

Betwen 2007 and 2011, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 49,300 fires that were started by someone, usually a child, playing with fire. These fires caused:

• 80 civilian deaths
• 860 civilian injuries
• $235 million in direct property damage per year

Statistics

• Half of home fires are started with cigarette lighters, 19% by matches, and 6% by candles.
• Almost half (40%) of child-playing home structure fires begin in the bedroom.
• The items ignited by home fire-play are principally mattresses, bedding, or clothing.
• Two out of five outside fires are started by someone between the ages of 10 and 12.
• July is the peak month for outdoor fire-play. Most of these fires involve fireworks during afternoon hours between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.
• 44% of home fires were started by a child between the ages of 4 and 6.
• Males are more likely to engage in fire-play than females, as 83% of home structure fires and 93% of outside or unclassified fires were set by boys.

Safety Tips

• Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Never use lighters or matches as a source of amusement for children; they may imitate you.
• If your child expresses curiosity about fire or has been playing with fire, calmly but firmly explain that matches and lighters are tools for adults only.
• Use only lighters designated with child-resistant features. Remember child-resistant does not mean child proof.
• Teach young children and school-age children to tell an adult if they see matches or lighters.
• Never leave matches or lighters in a bedroom or any place where children may go without supervision.
• If you suspect your child is intentionally setting fires or unduly fascinated with fire, get help. Your local fire department, school, or community counseling agency can put you in touch with trained experts.

Be Prepared

• Discuss emergency procedures and hold practice drills with your family
• Post and memorize emergency telephone numbers (including poison control)
• Assemble and store a survival kit
• Learn first aid
• Establish a location where the family should reunite if separated
• Choose a communication contact for extended family
• Learn the emergency plans of the family's schools, day-care centers, clubs and workplaces
• Tune to daily weather forecasts, radio and television stations will announce a WATCH if an emergency situation is expected, and a WARNING if it is imminent or in progress
• Determine an evacuation route/alternatives
• Know where main utility switches are located and learn how to turn them off if lines rupture
• Consider installing home sprinklers

Smoke Detectors

• One is definitely NOT enough! Every home should be equipped with smoke detectors on every level, particularly outside of sleeping areas. Interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound. This gives everyone more time to escape.
• Ensure that your smoke detectors are clean and tested monthly and batteries are replaced twice a year. Change batteries when you change your clocks. If an alarm "chirps," warning the battery is low, replace battery right away. If you can't reach the alarm, consider getting alarms that you can test with a flashlight or a television remote.
• Encourage children to help test the smoke detectors. Familiarize them with the sounds of the alarm(s).

Buying A Smoke Detector

• You can get them for less than 20 dollars apiece, and they can cut your family's risk of dying in a fire in half. But is one smoke detector better than another? Here are some details to consider:
• Some are battery-operated and others run on electricity with a battery backup in case of a power failure.
• If a smoke detector meets nationally recognized safety standards, it will display the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) label.
• There are two types of smoke detectors, either of which is equally efficient in detecting a fire. For the best protection, both types of alarms or a combination alarm (photoelectric and ionization) should be installed in homes.
• Those with photoelectric sensors - this type is quicker to detect slow-burning, smoky fires.
• Those with ionization sensors - these respond more quickly to faster, flaming fires.
• If cooking fumes or steam will set off a nuisance alarm, purchase an alarm that has a "hush"button. A "hush" button will reduce the alarm's sensitivity for a short period of time. A "hush" button should be used if the alarm is within 20 feet of a cooking appliance.
• Smoke alarms that include a recordable voice announcement, in addition to the usual alarm sound, may be helpful in waking children through the use of a familiar voice.
• Smoke alarms are available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. These alarms use strobe lights. Vibration equipment can be added to these alarms.

Installing A Smoke Detector

• Most areas of the country adhere to the National Fire Alarm Code, which specifies placing smoke detectors on each level of an existing home. One of these should be placed near sleeping areas.
• In new homes, smoke detectors must be electronic with battery backup. One is normally required to be placed outside or within each bedroom. Check with our local fire department to find out the specific fire codes in our area. Alarms that are hard-wired (and include battery backup) must be installed by a qualified electrician.
• Smoke rises; install smoke alarms following manufacturer's instructions high on a wall or on a ceiling. Save manufacturer's instructions for testing and maintenance.

Fire Extinguishers

• Keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher in your kitchen (one rated for grease fires and electrical fires).
• It's a good idea to keep fire extinguishers near the furnace, garage, and anywhere else a fire may start. These extinguishers are affordable, life-saving equipment for your home.
• Make sure every able-bodied member of the family is trained and familiar with the proper way to use the fire extinguishers.
• If you must use an extinguisher, make sure you have a clear way out in the event you can't put out the fire.

Flammables

• Keep matches, lighters and candles out of reach and out of sight of children!
• Smoking is dangerous! No one should ever smoke in bed. Make sure that cigarettes/cigars are extinguished properly before dumping ashes.
• Avoid grease build-up in the kitchen and on appliances. Cooking fires are common. Don't leave food cooking on stove tops unattended.
• If a fire should occur, suffocate it with a pot/pan lid or a cookie sheet, or close the oven door.
• Around the holidays, Christmas trees are a primary concern. Consider using an artificial tree that is labeled "flame resistant." If you do use an evergreen, water it daily to keep it from drying out. Make sure to inspect stringed lights and window ornaments annually for deterioration.
• Dispose of materials from fireplaces and grills in non-flammable containers.
• Never put children to sleep in "day" clothes. Fire-retardant sleepwear can make a difference in burn outcomes.

Clothes Dryer Safety

Doing laundry is most likely part of your everyday routine, but do you know how important taking care of your clothes dryer is to the safety of your home? With a few simple safety tips, you can help prevent a clothes dryer fire.

• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter.
• Make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.
• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time.
• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Once a year, or more often if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.
• Keep dryers in good working order. Gas dryers should be inspected by a professional to make sure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.
• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly.
• Follow the manufacturer's operating instructions and don't overload your dryer.
• Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed.
• Dryers should be properly grounded.
• Check the outdoor vent flap to make sure it is not covered by snow.
• Keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn, like boxes, cleaning supplies and clothing, etc.
• Clothes that have come in contact with flammable substances, like gasoline, paint thinner, or similar solvents should be laid outside to dry, then can be washed and dried as usual.

Candles

• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.
• Think about using flameless candles in your home. They look and smell like real candles.
• Use candle holders that are sturdy, and won't tip over easily.
• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface.
• Light candles carefully. Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame.
• Don't burn a candle all the way down, put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles. Never leave a child alone in a room with a burning candle.
• Keep matches and lighters up high and out of children's reach, in a locked cabinet.

Electrical Safety And Heat Sources

• Make sure your electrical system is not being over-taxed. This can cause a fire. Do your lights dim or flicker when extra appliances are plugged in? Check electrical outlets. Do not overload outlets. If you have questions or concerns, consult a certified electrician.
• Inspect wires. If you find any worn or exposed wiring from appliances, discontinue their use immediately! A fire is imminent!
• Space heaters can be dangerous if not used correctly. Make sure yours will automatically shut off if tipped over. Consult the operating instructions to make sure you are using space heaters, gas fire places, and other heat sources as intended by the manufacturer. Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, wood burning stoves or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer's instructions. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.
• Keep all flammable materials at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
• Have a three foot "kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters.
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Chimney fires are common. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.
• Keep appliances unplugged when not in use.

Grilling Safety

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill area.
• Keep your grill clean be removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.

Charcoal Grills

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

Propane Grills

• Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. A propane leak will release bubbles. If your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame, turn off the gas tank and grill. If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.
• If you smell gas while cooking, immediately get away from the grill and call the fire department. Do not move the grill.

Cooking Safety

Cooking brings family and friends together, provides an outlet for creativity and can be relaxing, but did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries? By following a few safety tips you can prevent these fires.

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don't use the stove or stove top.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
• Keep anything that can catch fire - oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains away from your stove top.
• Have a "kid-free zone" of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.

If You Have A Cooking Fire

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9 -1-1.
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out and you have a clear way out.
• Keep a lid nearby when you're cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire
• by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stove top. Leave the pan covered until it
• is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

Escaping A Fire

• Plan ahead. If a fire breaks out in your home, you may have only a few minutes to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Everyone needs to know what to do and where to go if there is a fire.
• Keep bedroom doors shut while sleeping. If you think there is a fire, feel the bottom of the door with the palm of your hand or touch the knob for heat before opening. If it is hot, do not open the door. Find another way out.
• Draw a map - one that's easy for all members of the family and visitors to understand.
• Make sure to practice your escape plan periodically. It will be easier to remember in case of an emergency.
• Have an escape route for each area of the home and a designated meeting place outside (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.
• When planning for a family with young children, be sure to teach them not to hide from fire or smoke and to go to firefighters who are there to help them.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can't help them.
• Close doors behind you as you leave.
• All children should be familiar with the ideas of "crawling underneath the smoke" to escape a fire. Always stay low to the ground when escaping from a fire, get low and go under the smoke to your way out. "Stop, drop, and roll" is another safety principle that must be ingrained into children's minds.
• Multi-storied buildings are of special concern. Ensure that everyone is familiar with how to use an escape ladder if necessary. Have a collapsible ladder on each floor of your house.
• Make sure every room has two means of escape in the event of a fire. Windows provide a secondary means of escape. Ensure they are in proper working order, are not painted shut, and guards are able to be disengaged in case of fire and escape is necessary through that window. Practice using different ways out.
• Keep a whistle in each bedroom to awaken the household in case of fire.
• Everyone must understand that once you escape, you must never re-enter a burning building - no matter what you might have left behind.
• Call emergency responders (911) from outside your home at a neighbor's house.
• Young children should know their street address and last name (and, of course, how to dial 911).
• After you've planned for the family, don't forget the pets. Alert firefighters about your pets. Don't rely on window or door decals to alert firefighters - such decals are often found to be outdated. In the event your pet suffers from smoke inhalation, rush the animal to the vet.