The U.S. Fire Administration says more than 360,000 fires destroyed homes in the United States in 2010. These fires caused 2,555 deaths and more than 13,000 injuries. Clearly, we should take house fires seriously. Taking small steps can help you stay safe.

One of the most important things you can do is make sure you have working smoke alarms in all major rooms of your home. Most of all, be sure you have one near your bedroom. Change the batteries twice a year, or ask someone to help you change them.

You should also check for possible fire starters. Make sure extension cords are not frayed, and don’t plug too many things into one outlet. In the kitchen, unplug small appliances, like your toaster, when you are not using them. Make sure the hood of your stove is clean and doesn’t have grease buildup. If you have a fireplace, put a screen up to block stray ashes and clean the chimney once a year.

Accidents can still happen. Make sure you know a couple ways to get out of your home if it catches fire. Make sure your house number is visible from the street. This helps firefighters get to you quickly.

Many fire stations will do a safety check at your home for free. Call your local fire department or senior center for details. And check out the sample fire safety checklist from the Urbana Fire Department.

Fires can happen quickly and be deadly. Keep your home secure, and have a safety plan. Some simple steps can go a long way toward keeping you safe.

Home Fire Safety Checklist

GENERAL

____	Are your address numbers visible from the street to permit ease of identification?
____	Are your smoke detectors in working order, batteries changed twice a year?
____	Do you have an escape plan, meeting place, and do you practice it?

 

 ALL HOUSEHOLD AREAS

____	Do you keep your passageway doors shut to reduce fire spread in the event of fire?
____	Are you using extension cords? Limit their use.
____	Check all electrical cords to make sure they are in good condition.
____	Check to make sure outlets are not overloaded.
____	Check all windows to make sure they operate smoothly.
____	Do not allow waste paper and combustibles to collect and become a fire hazard.
____	Ashtrays should be provided for all smokers. They should be disposed of properly.
____	Are your household chemicals stored away from children?
____	Are matches and lighters stored out of reach of children?
____	No combustibles should be stored in the attic.

 

LIVING AREA

____	Does your fireplace have a screen and hearth to protect from flying embers?
____	Has your chimney been cleaned? Is it operating properly?

 

KITCHEN AREA

____	Are all combustibles kept away from the cooking area?
____	Is your range hood clean and vented properly?
____	Are all unused small appliances unplugged when not in use?

 

UTILITY AREA

____	Are your heating ducts properly maintained?
____	Are combustibles stored away from the furnace and water heater?
____	Is your furnace filter clean?
____	Are there any oversized fuses in the fuse box?
____	Are your washer and dryer properly grounded?
____	Do you keep your basement door closed to reduce fire spread in the vent of fire?

 

GARAGE/STORAGE AREA

____	Is there a solid core door separating your garage from the house?
____	Are all flammable liquids stored in the proper containers?
____	Is the gasoline mower properly stored away from ignition sources?

 

OUTSIDE AREA

____	Are there any combustible materials close to the house?