
fire prevention and safety resources
Stay Safe. Stay prepared.
Start with the Basics.
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Install and test Smoke Alarms
Installing and testing smoke alarms monthly is a simple step to keep your home safe. Proper installation ensures alarms are positioned to detect smoke early, giving you and your family valuable time to react. Regular monthly testing confirms the device is working correctly and batteries are charged, helping to prevent false alarms or failures during emergencies. Make it a habit to test every alarm in your home, replace batteries as needed, and follow manufacturer guidelines for replacing smoke alarms every 10 years. Staying proactive saves lives.
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Have Fire Extinguishers
Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher to quickly tackle small fires before they become disasters. A readily available extinguisher can protect your family, property, and peace of mind by giving you a valuable tool for emergencies. Keep it in an accessible spot, check it regularly, and make sure everyone in your household knows how to use it safely. Safety starts with preparedness.
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Make a Plan
Creating and practicing a fire escape plan is essential for keeping your family safe in an emergency. Start by identifying two ways out of every room and choosing a safe meeting spot outside your home. Make sure everyone knows the plan and practices it regularly, including checking smoke alarms and understanding how to stay low to avoid smoke. Regular drills help everyone stay calm and act quickly when it matters most. Stay prepared, stay safe!
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Stay Alert
Never leave cooking unattended. It’s one of the leading causes of home fires. Even a momentary distraction can lead to a dangerous flare-up, putting your home and family at risk. Always stay in the kitchen when using the stove or oven, and keep a close eye on what you're cooking. Stay safe—stay present.
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Be Mindful
Keeping flammable materials away from heat sources is crucial for preventing fires. Items like paper, gasoline, cleaning solvents, and cloth should always be stored in cool, well-ventilated areas, far from stoves, heaters, and open flames. Even a small spark or heat exposure can ignite these materials, leading to dangerous and costly fires. Prioritize safety by maintaining clear boundaries between flammable substances and any sources of heat in your home or workplace.