One hundred years of fire prevention
Since 1922, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)® has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week every year in October, which commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. 2022 marks the 100th year of this observance and aims to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires.
Check out these key fire safety tips from the NFPA and get more tips here.
Watch your cooking
Did you know unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen? Stay in the kitchen if you are frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food. If you have to leave for a short period of time, turn off the stove. If you're simmering, baking or roasting food, stay in the home, use a timer and check it regularly.
Inspect electrical cords
Replace cords that are cracked or have damage, such as broken plugs or loose connections.
Make a fire escape plan
According to an NFPA survey, only one of every three American households has developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Make a plan so everyone in your home knows what to do and where to go if there's a fire.
Install and test smoke alarms
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside of sleeping areas. You should also interconnect your smoke alarms so that when one sounds, they all sound. Test smoke alarms at least once a month, and replace the batteries once a year or when the alarm tells you the battery is low.
Use fireplaces safely
Keep fire in its proper place by using a screen to keep sparks from flying out of the fireplace. Never leave a burning fire unattended, and make sure it's completely out before going to bed.
Be careful with space heaters
A space heater can be an efficient way to warm a chilly room, but read the instructions on the unit before you use it. If your space heater requires venting, make sure it's vented to the outdoors, and always allow at least three feet of empty area around space heaters. Never use your stove or oven to heat your home.
Install sprinklers
If you’re building or remodeling your home, install residential fire sprinklers. They can help contain or even extinguish a fire before the fire department arrives.
Candle with care
Candles and other decorations that use an open flame (think jack-o’-lanterns) are a great way to set a mood, but never leave them burning if you go out or go to sleep. Always keep your candles at least one foot away from anything that can burn.