Fires are devastating, no matter where you live. While the causes can vary—from electrical issues and cooking accidents to heating system malfunctions—the good news is that most fires are preventable. Prioritizing fire prevention is a crucial step in safeguarding your family and your property.
1. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Regularly
These devices are your first line of defense. Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed on every level of your home, outside all sleeping areas, and inside each bedroom. Test them monthly and replace batteries twice a year, perhaps when daylight saving time changes, as a helpful reminder.
2. Clean Dryer Vents and Lint Traps
Lint buildup in dryer vents is a leading cause of household fires. Clean the lint screen after every single load. Additionally, have your dryer vent professionally cleaned annually to remove hidden lint accumulation in the ductwork.
3. Inspect Electrical Cords and Outlets
Periodically check all electrical cords for fraying or damage, and ensure outlets aren’t overloaded. If an outlet or switch plate feels warm to the touch, it could indicate a problem. Avoid running cords under rugs or furniture, as this can cause damage and heat buildup. If you have old or questionable wiring, have a licensed electrician inspect it.
4. Practice Kitchen Safety
The kitchen is a common place for fires to start. Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using high heat or frying. Keep flammable items, like dish towels and oven mitts, away from stovetops. It’s smart to have a fire extinguisher readily available in your kitchen and to know how to use it before an emergency strikes.
5. Maintain Heating Systems (Especially Important in NJ)
For homes in colder climates like New Jersey, proper heating system maintenance is vital. Have your furnace, boiler, or wood-burning stove professionally inspected and cleaned annually. This not only ensures safe and efficient operation but also prevents the dangerous buildup of creosote in chimneys, a common cause of chimney fires.
6. Properly Store Flammable Materials
Gasoline, paint thinners, and other flammable liquids must be stored with extreme care. Always keep them in approved, sealed containers in a well-ventilated area, far away from any heat sources, pilot lights, or electrical equipment.
7. Never Leave Candles Unattended
Candles create a cozy ambiance, but they are an open flame. Always extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to sleep. Keep them on a stable, heat-resistant surface and at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, books, and furniture.
8. Safe Use of Space Heaters (Consider for NJ Homes)
If you use space heaters to supplement your heating, prioritize safety. Choose models with an automatic shut-off feature if they tip over. Always place them on a flat, stable surface at least three feet away from anything flammable. Critically, never use extension cords with space heaters, as they can easily overload circuits and cause fires. Plug them directly into a wall outlet.
9. Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible
Ensure you have at least one multi-purpose (ABC rated) fire extinguisher on each floor of your home, especially in the kitchen, garage, and laundry room. Make sure everyone in your household knows where they are and how to operate them.
10. Develop and Practice a Fire Escape Plan
In an emergency, every second counts. Develop a fire escape plan with your family that includes two ways out of every room and a designated outside meeting point a safe distance from your home. Practice this plan regularly so everyone knows what to do if a fire occurs.