The Number 1 cause of accidental fires in the home is cooking.
The following list shows the major reasons that cooking can be dangerous:
Do not leave cooking food unattended
Do not put combustibles near any heating appliances
If a pan of grease or oil catches on fire - DO NOT MOVE IT!! Turn off burner, put a lid on the pan or use an extinguisher
Do not wear loose fitting clothes while cooking
Do not leave pot handles sticking out so they can be knocked over. Turn handles toward the back of the stove
Ensure all electrical appliances are in good repair
Unplug small appliances when not in use
Another major cause for accidental fires is smoking. The following guidelines should be followed if you, anyone in your family, or any guests smoke in your home:
Do not smoke while lying down or when you are tired
Use only deep ashtrays
Wet all smoking materials before disposal
Keep smoking materials away from children
If taking medications that make you drowsy - be especially careful
Check all furniture after parties for smoldering cigarettes
Other causes of accidental fires in the home include the following:
Candles
If using candles, remember to use extreme diligence
Do not use if children are present
Use on solid, sturdy tables and ensure the candles are in a container
NEVER LEAVE UNATTENDED
Do not use candles near drapes, curtains, towels or any other combustibles.
Extinguish at the earliest possible time
Electrical Fires
Do not overload circuits
Extension cords in homes should be kept to a minimum. Ensure that all extension cords are in good shape
If extension cords must be used, buy heavy duty cords instead of the thin cheap basic cords.
NEVER put electrical cords under rugs or carpeting
Remember circuit breakers and fuses must be the weakest part of the electrical circuit. If the system becomes overloaded, these devises will protect your home from electrical fires
Fire Places, Wood Burners, Furnaces
Ensure that your chimney is in good condition and free of any debris
If using fire places or wood burners, use only dry, seasoned wood
Use screens or glass to protect from embers that could pop out of the fire place
Have your furnace, hot water tank or boiler serviced annually by a licensed technician.
