Power Your Safety

Learn Not to Burn

Here are some tips to help you protect what matters most, especially during the holidays, when fire numbers tend to rise.

• Detect Smoke Early

  Make sure your home has an adequate number of smoke detectors – and that they're all working. You should install smoke alarms on every floor of a home, including the basement, and particularly near rooms in which people sleep.

• Store an Extinguisher Nearby

  Have a readily accessible, all-purpose fire extinguisher that works on different types of flaming materials.

• Have an Evacuation Plan

  Develop an emergency evacuation plan so everyone can exit your home to escape a fire. Make sure everyone knows all possible exits, and arrange an outside meeting place.

• Keep Fire in its Place

  If you have a wood-fueled fireplace, use a metal screen to catch burning embers or shifting logs – and keep all combustible objects at least three feet away.

• Prevent Gas from Leaking

  For gas fireplaces, be sure to move the gas valve to the "closed" position when not in use.

• Clean Your Chimney Every Year

  Have the chimney flue cleaned annually by a professional. If you live in an apartment, consult with your building management to ensure this is done properly and regularly.

• Put a Lid on Grease Fires

  Never put out a grease fire with water; this can make the fire worse. If the fire is in a pot or pan, turn off the heat and carefully put a lid over the top or use your fire extinguisher.

• If You Must Smoke...

  If there's smoking in your house, provide deep, stable ashtrays, and douse their contents with water before dumping them into the trash. And since most home deaths from lighters and matches are started by children, keep these items out of their reach.

• Allow Clear Access to Fire Hydrants

  Keep fire hydrants on your property in clear view; don't obstruct them with fencing or shrubbery. In winter, keep them free of snow.

For additional fire safety tips, as well as a variety of other home safety recommendations, visit our Learning Center.

These recommendations were developed using generally accepted safety standards. Compliance with these recommendations is not a guarantee that you will be in conformance with any building code, federal, state or local regulation regarding safety or fire. Compliance with these recommendations does not ensure the absolute safety of your occupation, business or residence. It is the property owner's duty to warn any tenants or occupants of the property of any safety hazards that may exist.