Preventing Fires / House Fires / Stay Informed / Home

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. It is also the leading cause of fire injuries.
Never leave cooking unattended.
Always wear short, tight-fitting sleeves when cooking.
Keep towels, pot holders and curtains away from flames and heating elements.
Clean cooking surfaces regularly to prevent grease buildup which can ignite.
If a fire breaks out while cooking, put a lid on the pan to smother it.
Never throw water on a grease fire.
Heat oil gradually to avoid burns from spattering grease.
Use extra caution when preparing deep-fried foods.
Never use the oven to heat your home.
Double-check the kitchen before you go to bed or leave the house. Make sure all small appliances are turned off.

Never use gasoline, benzine, naptha, or similar flammable liquids indoors.
Store flammable liquids in approved containers in well-ventilated storage areas.
Never smoke near flammable liquids.
Discard all rags or materials that have been soaked in flammable liquids after you have used them. Safely discard them outdoors in a metal container.
Insulate chimneys and place spark arresters on top. The chimney should be at least three feet higher than the roof. Remove branches hanging above and around the chimney.

Be careful when using alternative heating sources.
Check with your local fire department on the legality of using kerosene heaters in your community. Be sure to fill kerosene heaters outside, and be sure they have cooled.
Place heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials.
Use only the type of fuel designated for your unit and follow manufacturer's instructions.
Store ashes in a metal container outside and away from your residence.
Keep open flames away from walls, furniture, drapery, and flammable items.
Keep a screen in front of the fireplace.
Have heating units inspected and cleaned annually by a certified specialist.

Keep matches and lighters up high, away from children, and, if possible, in a locked cabinet.
Never smoke in bed or when drowsy or medicated.
Provide smokers with deep, sturdy ashtrays.
Douse cigarette and cigar butts with water before disposal.

Have the electrical wiring in your residence checked by an electrician.
Inspect extension cords for frayed or exposed wires or loose plugs.
Make sure outlets have cover plates and no exposed wiring.
Make sure wiring does not run under rugs, over nails, or across high-traffic areas.
Do not overload extension cords or outlets.
Make sure insulation does not touch bare electrical wiring.