Fire Prevention Tips

Being aware of hazards in your home goes a long way in helping you avoid potential fires. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) lists five significant causes of fire damage, including:



• Cooking
• Electrical Malfunctions
• Heating
• Smoking
• Arson

Due to the hot, dry climate, Arizona homeowners also face the potential of yearly wildfires.

The American Red Cross explains that if you discover a fire in your home, you’ll have but a mere two minutes to escape. Smoke detectors are the best defense against fire damage. Not only do they save lives, but they also help prevent and lower the risk of fire damage. 



• Install smoke detectors in all bedrooms and on every floor of your house. Putting one near your kitchen is also a wise idea. Never disable a smoke alarm. 
• Test monthly and replace any malfunctioning batteries. Ensure that you hear the alarm in every room.
• Change the batteries twice a year and get a new smoke alarm once every 10 years. 
• Never disable a smoke detector, and do not ignore an alarm.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms outside each bedroom and in central locations within your home. Consider buying a combination smoke detector/carbon monoxide alarm for convenience.

As the U.S. Fire Administration notes, more than half of all home fires start in the kitchen. Here are some tips to follow when cooking to prevent a fire:

• Never leave food unattended when cooking on the stovetop or in the oven. It only takes a few seconds for a fire to start.
• Remove any flammable items such as oven mitts, towels, paper products, wooden utensils, or food packaging away from the stovetop area. 
• Certain foods such as sugar, flour, alcohol, oil, and garlic are highly combustible. Be very careful when using these ingredients near the stove or an open flame.
• Do not wear loose clothing when cooking. Stick to short-sleeves and tight-fitted clothing. 
• Keep the pan’s lid nearby. If a fire starts, put the top on the pan and shut off the burner. Do not lift the lid until the fire is entirely out.
• If grease or oil splatters and causes a fire, do not use water to put the fire out. Use baking soda or salt instead.
• Ensure that a fire extinguisher is in your kitchen at all times and is easily accessible.
• Regularly clean your oven and stovetop.

Smoking is not only unhealthy but is the leading cause of fires in a home. If you smoke, be responsible and take the following precautions:

• Smoke outdoors
• Use fire-safe cigarettes
• Do not leave cigarette butts smoldering
• Never smoke in bed
• Put lighters and matches in a locked cabinet to keep them away from children

Electrical fires are the second leading cause of home fires after cooking. Most electrical fires result from a malfunctioning appliance or mismanagement of cords and wires. Take steps to prevent electrical fires:



• Check cords and wires before using an electrical appliance or device. If the cable is frayed, worn, or otherwise damaged, replace it immediately. 
• Ensure that all outlets have covers and no wiring is exposed.
• Avoid overloading outlets, extension cords, and power strips.
• Use surge protectors
• Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Purchase appliances that comply with national safety standards.
• Make sure light bulbs are the proper wattage.
• Install circuit breakers

While Phoenix experiences relatively mild winters, homeowners do still need to heat their homes. 

• Have furnaces and chimneys cleaned and inspected on an annual basis.
• Do not use heaters to dry clothing.
• If you have a fireplace, put a glass or metal screen around the fire to prevent sparks.
• Put out the fire when you leave the room 
• Never heat your home with your oven.
• Periodically clean and replace air filters
• Keep space heaters away from curtains and drapes.

While having homeowners insurance won’t prevent fires, it will help protect you if your home suffers fire damage. When reviewing your policy:

• Ensure you understand the different types of coverage available in the event of a fire (dwelling, personal property, personal liability, and loss of use). 
• Know what types of fire damage your policy does and does not cover.
• Understand that insurance policies do not cover all property losses. 
• Check if you need to purchase additional insurance based on where you live.

• Place a fire extinguisher on every level of your home.
• Ensure that all household members know how to use a fire extinguisher.
• Never leave candles unattended. 
• If you lose power, use flashlights rather than candles. 
• Clean outdoor grills before and after use
• Consider installing an automatic sprinkler system.
• Instruct everyone in your household, especially children, to call 911 as soon as they suspect a fire.
• Make sure emergency responders can see your house number from the street.
• Teach children fire safety rules.

A home fire can be costly - monetarily and emotionally. However, taking precautions and practicing safe habits can prevent the majority of fires. Install smoke alarms throughout your home, have fire extinguishers handy, and most importantly, educate your family about how to respond should a fire occur.