Fire extinguishers are an important part of every home safety plan. Keep at least one extinguisher in the kitchen, garage, and near heating equipment, and make sure everyone in the home knows how to use it. Choose the correct type of extinguisher for common household fires and inspect it regularly to ensure it is fully charged and ready for use. Remember the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. 

Electrical hazards can lead to fires, shocks, and serious injuries if not addressed properly. Avoid overloading outlets, replace damaged cords immediately, and keep electrical devices away from water. Have outdated wiring inspected by a qualified electrician and use surge protectors for major appliances and electronics. Practicing safe electrical habits helps reduce the risk of home fires and accidents. 

Smoke alarms provide an early warning that can save lives during a fire emergency. Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly, replace batteries at least once a year, and replace the entire unit every ten years. A working smoke alarm gives families valuable time to escape safely during a fire. 

Carbon monoxide alarms help protect families from a dangerous gas that cannot be seen or smelled. Carbon monoxide is produced by fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, fireplaces, gas stoves, and generators. Install alarms near sleeping areas and on every level of the home, and test them regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. If the alarm sounds, leave the home immediately and call emergency services. 

Cooking is one of the leading causes of home fires, making kitchen safety extremely important. Never leave food cooking unattended, especially when frying or grilling indoors. Keep flammable items like towels and paper products away from the stove, and turn pot handles inward to prevent spills. If a grease fire occurs, never use water—cover the pan with a lid and turn off the heat if it is safe to do so. 

Outdoor grills can quickly become a fire hazard if used improperly. Always place grills away from siding, decks, railings, and overhanging branches. Keep grills clean to prevent grease buildup and never leave them unattended while in use. Before lighting a gas grill, check for propane leaks and ensure all connections are secure to reduce the risk of fire or explosion. 

Heating equipment is a common cause of fires during colder months. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from curtains, furniture, and other flammable materials. Never leave heaters running unattended or while sleeping, and have furnaces and chimneys inspected annually. Practicing safe heating habits can greatly reduce the chance of a winter fire emergency. 

Every family should have a home fire escape plan that is practiced regularly. Identify at least two exits from every room and choose a safe meeting place outside the home. Make sure everyone knows how to call emergency services and understands the importance of getting out quickly and staying out. Practicing escape drills helps families respond calmly and safely during an emergency. 

Falls are a leading cause of injuries in the home, especially for children and older adults. Keep walkways clear of clutter, secure loose rugs, and install handrails on stairways and in bathrooms when needed. Ensure rooms and hallways are well lit and use non-slip mats in tubs and showers. Taking simple precautions can greatly reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls in the home. 

Home oxygen equipment can greatly increase the risk of fire if not handled properly. Oxygen itself does not burn, but it causes fires to spread much faster and burn hotter. Keep oxygen tanks and tubing at least five feet away from open flames, heat sources, and electrical equipment, and never use petroleum-based products near oxygen devices. Post “No Smoking” signs in the home and ensure oxygen equipment is stored securely in a well-ventilated area. 

Smoking materials are a leading cause of home fire deaths, making safe smoking practices essential. Smoke outside whenever possible and use deep, sturdy ashtrays to dispose of cigarettes properly. Never smoke in bed or while drowsy, and always ensure cigarettes and ashes are completely extinguished before throwing them away. Keep lighters and matches out of reach of children to help prevent accidental fires.