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  Protect yourself and others: fire safe your home.

There are several inexpensive ways to make your home more fire safe. By planning ahead you may greatly reduce the likelihood of a fire and increases your chances of escape should a fire occur.

Prevent electrical fires

Never overload circuits with too many electrical devices. Also, do not place cords in areas of high traffic, under rugs or hung over nails. This can cause damage to the insulating qualities of cords and they may not be able to perform properly. If any appliance or lamp should sputter or spark or give off a strange smell, turn it off immediately. Have it repaired by a professional or replaced.

Use appliances wisely

All manufacturers give safety precautions for electrical appliances. Following them helps to reduce the likelihood of fires. Overheating, sparks and unusual smells are indicators there's a problem with the device. When you're not using appliances, unplug them. Be sure to use safety caps in the outlet if there are small children in the house.

Portable space heaters and wood stoves need their space. Keep anything combustible at least three feet away. Use fire screens in front of fire places. This will help to keep sparks away from combustibles and children from the fire. Remember radiating heat will still make screens hot to the touch.

Have your chimney cleaned regularly, as the buildup inside it can cause fires. Kerosene heaters should be used with care. Only use approved fuels, never gasoline or camp stove fuel. Refueling should be done outside and only after the heater has cooled.

Fire extinguishers

All homes should have fire extinguishers for putting out small fires only. Do not attempt to put out any large fire by yourself. Call the fire department from another location.

Check the extinguisher monthly to see if it has been discharged. Check this by looking to see that the pin is in place and that the gauge reads full. Extinguishers should have a tie on the pin that both holds it in place and tells you if it has been used.

Once discharged, have a qualified technician service it. It is no good to you if it will not work when needed. Although relatively easy to use, call the fire department should you have any questions.

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