Fire Prevention Resources

Smoke Alarms

• Install smoke alarms on every level, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas
   
• Test alarms monthly by pressing the test button
   
• Replace batteries twice a year (when clocks change is a good reminder)
   
• Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years
   
• Use interconnected alarms so when one sounds, they all sound
   
• Never disable an alarm—use the hush button if it goes off while cooking
   

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms

• Install CO alarms on every level and near sleeping areas
   
• Test alarms monthly and replace batteries yearly
   
• Replace CO alarms every 5–7 years (follow manufacturer’s instructions)
   
• Never use stoves, ovens, or grills to heat your home
   
• Have heating systems, fireplaces, and water heaters inspected yearly
   
• Keep vents and chimneys clear of snow, leaves, or debris
   
• Never run a car or generator in a garage—use generators outside, 20+ feet from doors and windows
   
• Learn the signs of CO poisoning: headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, fatigue
   
• If a CO alarm sounds, go outside immediately and call 911

In the Kitchen

• Stay in the kitchen when cooking—never leave food unattended on the stove
   
• Keep flammable items (towels, paper, curtains) away from burners
   
• Turn pot handles inward so they can’t be bumped or grabbed by kids
   
• Keep a lid nearby to smother small pan fires—never use water on grease fires
   
• Wear short or tight sleeves when cooking to avoid catching clothing on fire
   
• Clean stovetops and ovens regularly to prevent grease buildup
   
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it (PASS method)
   

On the Grill

• Use grills outdoors only, at least 10 feet away from the house, deck railings, and overhangs
   
• Never grill in a garage, tent, or enclosed space—deadly gases can build up
   
• Check for gas leaks on propane grills before use (soap-and-water test)
   
• Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the grill area
   
• Clean grease and fat buildup from trays and grill surfaces after each use
   
• Never leave a hot grill unattended—stay nearby until it’s completely cool
   
• Have a spray bottle of water or fire extinguisher handy when grilling

• Inspect cords and plugs regularly—replace any that are frayed, cracked, or damaged
   
• Avoid overloading outlets—plug in only one heat-producing appliance per outlet
   
• Use power strips with surge protectors instead of extension cords for multiple devices
   
• Never run cords under rugs, carpets, or furniture—they can overheat and start fires
   
• Unplug appliances when not in use to reduce risk and save energy
   
• Keep electrical items away from water (sinks, bathtubs, outdoor areas)
   
• Use light bulbs with the correct wattage for your lamps and fixtures
   
• Have GFCI outlets installed in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and outdoor areas
   
• Schedule regular inspections of your wiring and breaker panel by a licensed electrician
   
• If you smell burning or see sparks, unplug the device immediately and call an electrician

Fireplace Safety

• Have chimneys and fireplaces inspected and cleaned yearly by a professional
   
• Use a sturdy screen to catch sparks and embers
   
• Burn only dry, seasoned wood—never trash, cardboard, or treated lumber
   
• Keep flammable items at least 3 feet away from the fireplace
   
• Never leave a fire unattended—fully extinguish before leaving or sleeping
   
• Dispose of ashes safely in a metal container with a lid, stored outside and away from your home
   

Home Heating Safety

• Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from space heaters, radiators, and furnaces
   
• Turn off space heaters when leaving a room or going to bed
   
• Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets—avoid extension cords or power strips
   
• Use heaters with tip-over and automatic shut-off features
   
• Have furnaces, chimneys, and vents inspected and serviced annually
   
• Never use ovens or stoves to heat your home
   
• Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and test them regularly
   
• Ensure heating equipment is properly vented to prevent carbon monoxide buildup

Decorations & Lights

• Check holiday lights for frayed wires or broken bulbs before using them
   
• Use lights and extension cords rated for indoor or outdoor use as needed
   
• Turn off all holiday lights before bed or when leaving home
   
• Never overload outlets or power strips with too many plugs
   
• Keep decorations away from fireplaces, space heaters, and candles
   

Christmas Trees

• Choose a fresh tree and keep it watered daily so it doesn’t dry out
   
• Place trees at least 3 feet away from heat sources like fireplaces and heaters
   
• Use only UL-listed lights and never use candles on or near a tree
   
• Dispose of trees promptly after the holidays before they become fire hazards
  

Candle Safety

• Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn
   
• Always use sturdy, tip-proof holders on heat-resistant surfaces
   
• Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed
   
• Never leave children or pets alone in a room with burning candles
   
• Trim wicks to ¼ inch before lighting to prevent high flames
   
• Consider flameless, battery-operated candles for safer decorating
• Consider interconnected alarms so when one sounds, they all sound
   
• Never disable an alarm while cooking—use the silence button, not removal

• Only use chargers that came with the device or are approved by the manufacturer
   
• Avoid overcharging—unplug devices once they are fully charged
   
• Do not charge devices on beds, couches, or under pillows where heat can build up
   
• Keep batteries away from extreme heat or cold (never leave them in hot cars)
   
• Inspect batteries and devices regularly—stop using them if they swell, leak, or smell odd
   
• Do not puncture, crush, or throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash
   
• Charge devices on a hard, flat surface with good airflow
   
• Store spare batteries in a cool, dry place and protect them from damage
   
• Use certified replacement batteries—avoid cheap or counterfeit versions
   
• Recycle old or damaged batteries properly at an approved recycling center
   
• If a battery overheats or catches fire, use a Class B or Class C fire extinguisher—never use water