12 Simple Ways To Avoid a Fire in Your Home

Fires can happen anytime and anywhere. In the United States, a house fire is reported every 86 seconds. A home fire is most likely to start in the kitchen, so it’s important to be extra careful when cooking. Fire suppression systems and fire extinguishers are your best line of defense against a fire.

Here are 12 simple ways to avoid a fire in your home:

1. Be Mindful of What You Place Near the Stove

Keep things that can catch on fire away from your stove. This includes things like potholders, towels, paper and curtains.

2. Stay in Kitchen While Cooking

Keep a close eye on what you’re cooking. Don’t leave the kitchen if you’re frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you are baking or roasting food, check it regularly if you must step away.

3. Keep the Stovetop Clean

Grease and food can easily catch on fire if they build up on your stove. Wipe up spills immediately and clean your stove regularly. Make sure the oven vent is clear too.

4. Don’t Wear Loose Clothing Near the Stove

Sleeves or other loose clothing can easily catch on fire if they touch a flame. Roll up your sleeves or wear an apron when cooking.

5. Use the Stove’s Back Burners

If possible, use the back burners on your stove. They’re less likely to cause a fire. When using the front burners, turn pot handles away from the front of the stove.

6. Keep a Cooking Fire Extinguisher Nearby

All homes should have a fire extinguisher. Make sure yours is easily accessible and know how to use it. Other fire suppression systems include sprinklers and smoke alarms.

7. Keep Children Away From the Stove

Never leave children alone in the kitchen, even for a minute. Keep them at least three feet away from the stove.

8. Keep Pets Away From the Stove

Pets can easily knock things over near the stove. Keep them in another room while you’re cooking.

9. Use a Stove Timer

If you’re going to step away from the stove, set a timer to remind you to come back. This way, you won’t forget about what’s cooking.

10. Don’t Cook If You’re Tired

Cooking when you’re tired can be dangerous. If you’re feeling sleepy, take a break before starting to cook. You may fall asleep and wake up to a kitchen fire.

11. Don’t Cook If You’re Under the Influence

Cooking under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a recipe for disaster. You may be less likely to use basic precautions when you are drunk or high. In the case of a fire, your reaction time will be slower.

12. Don’t Overload Electrical Outlets

Don’t plug too many appliances into one outlet. If you need to use multiple outlets, use a power strip with built-in circuit protection.

In conclusion, following these simple tips will help you avoid a fire in your home. Cooking is a necessity and should also be an enjoyable experience, but it’s important to be safe and take precautions to avoid a kitchen fire.

Categorised in: Fire Safety Tips

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