Fire safety should be practiced by all family members. Awareness of potential dangers and preventive actions are preferable to even the fastest response. Keep these suggestions in mind and add your own during your family meetings.  Some of these things may sound ridiculously elementary to you, but to young children they may be the beginnings of valuable life lessons.

Train Family Members

• Ensure that all family members know what escape routes exist in your home.
• Conduct a fire drill with family members.

• Test the smoke/carbon monoxide detectors to assure they function and so that everyone recognizes the sound. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning and servicing all of your smoke detectors.
• As soon as possible, teach young children how and why to dial 911.
• Have a general use fire extinguisher and instruct all family members in its location and use.
• Teach children the safe use of appliances such as irons and toasters.

Practice Prevention

• Store matches away from children and heat sources.
• Avoid smoking.
• Avoid leaving small children home alone, even for a short time.
• Candles (and candle lighters) should only be used with adult supervision and burning candles should not be left un attended.
• Maintain appliances in clean and safe working condition.
• Be sure to change the batteries on all smoke/carbon monoxide detectors in June and December.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
• Ensure that all electrical cords are in good repair.
• Avoid having any flammable objects or materials near the stove or cooktop.
• Keep the range hood filter clean to prevent a build up of grease.
• Allow space for cooling around electrical equipment.
• Unplug flat irons and curling irons when it is not in  use. Do not leave an iron that is on unattended.
• Use electric blankets with care, following manufacturer directions.
• Store volatile materials (paint, gasoline for the lawn mower, and so on) in appropriate containers, away from flames (such as pilot lights) or heat sources.
•  Keep the barbeque clear of flammable objects and materials.
• If your home includes a gas fireplace follow all directions and do not leave the fireplace unattended when it is on.
• If you have a wood burning fireplace:
  • Arrange for professional cleaning of the chimney at appropriate intervals.
  • Maintain the spark arrester on the chimney.
  • Never use liquid fire starters (such as for a charcoal barbeque) in an indoor fireplace.
  • Use a screen or glass doors when a fire is burning.
  • Confirm the fire is out before closing the flue.
  • Do not leave the fireplace unattended while a fire is burning.
• During holidays, ensure that all cords and connections are in good condition and of appropriate capacity for electrical decorations.
• If you decide to finish the basement, or add onto your home, obtain a building permit and work with trained professionals. Ensure that all building department inspections occur and that the work complies with all applicable codes. This also applies to installing a gas line for an outdoor barbeque, a gas fireplace, clothes dryer, and so on.