Small fires are more common, causing serious injuries and extensive damage to property and possessions. By following a few simple steps and maintaining a basic level of awareness you can considerably reduce the chance of fire in the home. The easiest and most effective way of protecting the home is by fitting at least one smoke alarm and regularly make sure it works.
Here are twelve steps to protect your home from fire.
Fit smoke alarms on each level in your home. Keep them free from dust and test them once a week.
Make a fire action plan so that everyone in your home knows how to escape if there is a fire.
Keep all exits in your home clear, so that people can escape if there is a fire. Make sure that everyone in your home can easily find keys for doors and windows.
Take care in the kitchen - accidents while cooking account for over half the fires in the homes. Never leave young children alone in the kitchen.
Take care when cooking with hot oil. Consider buying a deep-fat fryer which is controlled by a thermostat.
Never leave lit candles in an empty room or in rooms where children are left on their own. Make sure candles are in secure holders on a surface that doesn't burn and are away from any materials that could burn.
Make sure cigarettes are stubbed out properly, disposed of carefully and never smoke in bed.
Get into the habit of closing doors at night. If you want to keep a child's bedroom door open be sure to close the lounge and kitchen doors. This may well help save your Childs life if there is a fire.
Don't overload electrical sockets. Remember one plug per socket outlet.
Keep matches and lighters where children can not reach them.
Take special care when you are tried or when you've been drinking.
Don't leave the TV or other electrical appliances on standby as this cause a fire. Always switch them off and unplug them when not in use.
