Fire Safety Tips and Tricks

Preventing Fires in Your Home

As a firefighter, I've seen firsthand the devastating effects of fires on families and communities. That's why it's crucial to take proactive steps to prevent them from occurring in the first place. One of the most important things you can do is ensure that your home has working smoke alarms installed on every level and inside each sleeping area. Make sure to test them monthly and replace batteries annually.

Don't underestimate the importance of having a fire escape plan! Identify at least two ways out of each room, and designate a meeting spot outside where everyone can gather once they've escaped. Practice your plan with all household members so that it becomes second nature in case of an emergency.

Fire Safety in the Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most common places where fires start. Never leave cooking unattended, and keep a lid or baking sheet nearby to smother flames if they do occur. Keep flammable materials like towels and curtains away from heat sources, and avoid overloading electrical outlets with too many appliances.

Keep an eye on your children while they're cooking, especially when using sharp objects or open flames. Make sure they know the importance of not playing with fire or leaving it unattended.

What to Do During a Fire

In the event of a fire, stay calm and get out as quickly as possible. Don't try to fight the flames yourself – instead, close all doors behind you to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading.

Once outside, move to your designated meeting spot and call 911 or your local emergency number. Stay put until firefighters arrive and give you the all-clear.