Most home fires can be prevented with a few simple precautions. Cooking, heating equipment, smoking materials, candles, and hot ash are some of the leading causes of home fires. You can reduce the risk and protect your home and family with the proper safety habits. This page provides practical tips to help you prevent fires before they start.
Fire Safety Tips
Prevent Fires Before They Start
Cooking Safety
Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires. Stay alert and take precautions to keep you and your family safe.
- Stay in the kitchen when cooking, especially when frying, grilling, or broiling food.
- Keep flammable items away from the stove top.
- Turn pot handles inward to prevent accidental spills.
- Keep a lid nearby when cooking.
- If a grease fire starts, turn off the heat and cover the pan with a lid. NEVER USE WATER.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.
Smoking Safety
Smoking materials are the leading cause of home fire deaths. If you smoke, follow these safety tips:
- Only smoke outside.
- Never smoke in bed or when feeling drowsy.
- Use a deep, sturdy ashtray and place it away from flammable materials.
- Make sure cigarette butts are completely extinguished by soaking them in water or sand.
- Never smoke where medical oxygen is used.
- Keep lighters and matches out of reach of children.
Heating Equipment
Improper use of heating equipment is a major fire hazard during the colder months. Stay safe with these tips:
- Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn (like curtains or furniture).
- Turn off and unplug space heaters when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Only use space heaters tested and certified by a recognized testing laboratory. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Have your chimney and heating system inspected and cleaned annually.
- Never use an oven or stove to heat your home.
Candles
Candles create a cozy atmosphere but can quickly become dangerous if left unattended.
- Use candles sparingly. Consider using flameless candles as a safer alternative.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Keep a lit candle at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.
- Use sturdy holders that won’t tip over.
Hot Ash Disposal
Improper disposal of hot ash from fireplaces, grills, and fire pits can start fires hours later:
- Allow ashes and coals to cool completely before disposing of them. Chimneys and fire pits are designed to contain heat safely.
- Place ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid and wet them down. Never use plastic or paper containers.
- Store the container outside, at least 10 feet away from your home, and any flammable materials.
- Never dispose of ashes in the trash until they are completely cooled.
- Never use a vacuum cleaner to pick up ashes.
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