Fire Prevention Checklist

ALTERNATIVE HEATERS

• Use heaters only in well-ventilated rooms.
• Place heaters where they will not be knocked over easily.
• Do not use heaters to dry clothing or other items.
• Keep heaters at a safe distance from curtains, furniture and all combustibles.

KEROSENE HEATERS

• Be sure kerosene heaters are legal in your area.
• Fill only with K-1 Kerosene, and never use gasoline or camp stove fuel.
• It is recommended to refuel kerosene heaters outdoors and when they are cool.

WOODSTOVES & FIREPLACES

• Only use seasoned wood, and never use green wood, artificial logs or trash.
• Always use a protective screen.
• Clean interiors, hearths and chimneys yearly.

SAFE COOKING PRACTICES

• Don't leave food unattended on the stove.
• Keep dangling clothing away from burners.
• Keep appliances clean and free of grease and crumbs.

SMOKE DETECTORS

• Place smoke detectors near bedrooms and on every floor.
• Test the batteries monthly.
• Keep smoke detectors away from air vents.
• Place smoke detectors at least 4 to 6 inches away from wall and corners.

ELECTRICAL WIRING

• Replace wiring if it is frayed or cracked.
• Do not place wiring under rugs, over nails, or in high traffic areas.
• Avoid overloading outlets and make sure they stay cool to the touch.
• Keep covers over electric plates and avoid exposed wiring.

ELECTRIC SPACE HEATERS

• Plug heaters directly into the wall socket, and not into extension cords.
• Unplug heaters when they are not being used.

SAFE SMOKING HABITS

• Never smoke in bed.
• Keep ashtrays away from upholstered furniture and curtains.
• Always attend burning cigarettes.

CHILDREN AND FIRE SAFETY

• Keep lighters and matches away from children.
• Teach children how to call for emergency assistance.
• Use safety plugs in electrical outlets.

HOME FIRE ESCAPE PLAN

• Have an escape plan and make sure all family members know it.
• Practice the plan every six months.
• Keep emergency numbers, a whistle, and a flashlight near the telephone.
• Identify an outside meeting place.
• Never return into a burning building.
• Know "Stop, Drop and Roll"
• Know how to call for emergency assistance.

FIRE SAFETY TECHNOLOGY

• Keep a fire extinguisher handy. especially in the kitchen.
• Place smoke detectors near bedrooms.
• Make sure there is a smoke detector on every floor of the house and in the garage.
• Test the batteries and clean dust from smoke detectors monthly.
• Change the batteries at least once a year.
• Keep smoke detectors away from air vents.
• Place smoke detectors at least 4 to 6 inches away from walls and corners. Replace old smoke detectors.
• Many experts believe the useful life of a smoke detector is about ten years.

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