Fire Safety and You: Top 10 Fire Safety Habits to Live By

Live a fire safe life – this is the constant advice of many firefighters and fire experts in this country. The only problem is that some people are simply not aware of how to practice fire safety habits and how to avoid fire accidents that cause property damage and loss of life.

The good news is that fire safety habits are simple and easy to do, anyone can make them part of their daily life. To know the best clothes to live in, these are the things you should keep in mind:

1. Be careful when handling flammable and combustible materials.

You should always take the necessary precautions when handling anything that is flammable. Be sure to store them in a safe place away from any combustible material.

2. Practice safe cooking in the kitchen.

When cooking in the kitchen, it is advisable to avoid wearing loose clothing and always have a fire blanket or fire extinguisher handy in case of a grease fire. Never allow children to participate in cooking tasks that involve the use of fire.

3. Keep fire starters and anything flammable out of reach of children and pets.

Matches, lighters and candles should be stored in places out of the reach of children and pets. Children are often curious and if care is not taken they can end up creating a huge fire which can result in tragedy.

4. Properly maintain electrical equipment.

As for electrical equipment, fire hazards include damaged electrical conductors, overloaded outlets and extension cords, faulty wiring, blown fuses, poor-quality electrical equipment, malfunctioning electrical devices, and loose electrical connections.

Use only high quality electrical equipment and inspect it regularly for any signs of defects or damage. If there is any problem, have it repaired by a professional immediately. Avoid overloading outlets as well.

5. Use heating devices carefully.

Heating devices, especially gas and kerosene heaters, can cause a fire if not used with proper precautions. Be sure to place them in a place that is inaccessible to children and away from heat sources such as ovens, stoves, or fireplaces.

6. Know how to use fire safety devices.

Knowing how to use fire safety devices like fire extinguishers, fire blankets and fire hoses is essential so that when it’s time for a fire to break out, you’ll know how to deal with a small nascent fire before it gets worse.

7. Learn what to do in case of fire.

Learn basic fire emergency procedures and share this knowledge with the rest of the family.

8. Do not leave burning candles unattended.

Candles must be blown out before leaving or sleeping. Put them in a place that is not near the window, sheets or curtains.

9. Extinguish cigarettes in water before throwing them away.

Smoking is another major cause of fires, so you need to properly put out your cigarette before throwing it away. Also, avoid smoking in bed and before sleeping.

10. Formulate a fire escape route for your home.

An escape route plan should be easy and simple to understand and should be posted on all levels of your home.

It’s not that hard to practice fire safety habits as long as you have the presence of mind and determination to keep your family and home safe from a fire accident.