Never smoke when drowsy or when you're in bed. |
Use sturdy, non-tip ashtrays and check for smoldering butts in furniture - especially after parties. Douse butts and ashes with water before discarding them. Use all space heaters with care. Keep them away from combustibles.
Never leave cooking food unattended. Keep cooking areas clean and clear of combustibles.
Identify your house with large address numbers that the fire department can see easily.
Have your chimney and central heating system inspected at least once a year and cleaned if necessary.
Keep papers neatly stacked and bundled, or in boxes.
Never use or store gasoline inside your home. If necessary keep a small quantity in an approved safety container locked in an outdoor shed.
Store paints, thinners, and other flammable liquids in their original containers, well away from heat, sparks, or flame.
Store matches and lighters up high, out of reach of children. Use only child-resistant lighters.
Make sure there are two clear exits from each room and that everyone knows these escape routes and has practiced using them.
Install smoke alarms on each level of your home and outside of sleeping areas.
Plug only one heat-producing appliance into an electrical outlet. Never override or bypass fuses or circuit breakers. Avoid running extension cords across doorways or under carpets. Keep Christmas trees watered, and extinguish all candles before going to bed.