House Fires

Each year more than 2,500 people die and 12,600 are injured in home fires in the United States, with direct property loss due to home fires estimated at $7.3 billion annually. Home fires can be prevented.

To protect yourself, it is important to understand basic characteristics of fire. Fire and smoke are:

• Fast
• Hot
• Dark
• Deadly

Create and practice a fire escape plan. Twice each year, practice your home fire escape plan and change the batteries in your smoke detectors. Remember to:

• Find two ways to get out of each room.
• Practice crawling in the dark or with your eyes closed.
• Make sure everyone in the family practices how to open locked doors and windows.
• Teach children not to hide from firefighters.
• Dial 911 from another location.

Prevent Home Fires

Most home fires occur in the kitchen but other common causes of fires are discarded cigarettes, fireplaces without screens or doors, and heating appliances left too close to furniture or other combustibles. Teach children the dangers of fire and risks that matches and lighters pose. Store your fire tools in a safe and secure place away from small children.

Other Prevention Tips

• Avoid lighting candles.
• Maintain your electrical appliances, cords, and wires.
• Keep combustible and flammable liquids away from heat sources.
• Dispose of unused chemicals and other combustibles.
• Always refuel portable generators outdoors.