On average in the United States in 2010, someone died in a fire every 169 minutes, and someone was injured every 30 minutes. Here are some common fire hazards in your home.
1.) Walking away from something cooking in the kitchen.
Be sure not to leave hotplates and toasters unattended. Never leave cookbooks close to open flames.
2.) Worn out electrical cords.
Be sure your pets are not chewing on the wires. Frayed cords and exposed wires could start a fire in no time.
3.) Overloaded electrical strips
Overloaded power strips and outlets can spark and cause a fire.
4.) Leaving small appliances such as coffee makers, toasters and food processors plugged in.
5.) Leaving a candle unattended
A flameless candle may be a better option if you have children or pets.
6.) Using a fireplace incorrectly.
Make sure the chimney is clear, and never dispose of ashes that are not cold.
7.) Leaving a burning cigarette unattended.
Here are some fire prevention tips.
Make sure you wait to empty ashtray contents until they are cold.
As a general rule, portable fire extinguishers for the home should have a rating of at least 2-A:10-B:C.
Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn -- including furniture, blankets, curtains and paper products.
Choose space heaters that turn off automatically if they tip over.
Make and practice a fire escape plan.
Install a smoke alarm on every floor of your home, even the basement.
Replace smoke alarms after 10 years.
CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home.
Choose a CO alarm that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
Never force a three-prong cord into a two-slot outlet.
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