Portable Heater Safety

Portable Heaters Need Space!

Portable electric heaters can cause fires if misused. Always ensure they are:

Listed and labeled for safety.

Plugged directly into wall outlets - never use extension cords.

Positioned at least 3 feet away from any combustible materials.

Turned off when you leave the room or go to sleep.

Ignoring these guidelines can lead to tragic outcomes.

Cooking Fire Safety

Stay Safe in the Kitchen

Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fires. To prevent them:

Never leave cooking unattended.

Wear tight-fitting clothing while cooking.

Keep flammable items (towels, curtains) away from heat sources.

Keep children supervised.

Clean surfaces to prevent grease buildup.

If a fire starts:

Smother grease fires with a lid - never use water.

Shut the oven door for oven fires.

Use an ABC-rated fire extinguisher and call 911 if needed.

Burn safety tips are also included in this section to protect against injury.

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety

Lithium-ion batteries are common in phones, laptops, scooters, and more - but they can overheat or catch fire due to thermal runaway. Follow these safety steps:

Choose certified products.

Handle devices with care.

Always watch for damage or swelling.

Respond to warning signs - unplug and stop using.

Get out and call 911 if there’s a fire.

Educate others.

Avoid charging near flammables, and never charge devices under pillows or beds.

Home Heating Safety

Prevent Fires This Winter

Heating equipment is a major cause of house fires. Prevent problems by:

Keeping flammable materials 36" from heating sources.

Having annual inspections of furnaces, chimneys, and heaters.

Turning off space heaters before sleeping or leaving a room.

Using proper containers for ash disposal and storing ashes outside.

Also, maintain working smoke detectors and review your home escape plan regularly.

Fire Safety for Seniors

Aging Doesn’t Mean Vulnerable

Adults over 65 are more likely to suffer injuries or fatalities in fires. Prevent accidents by:

Avoiding smoking while drowsy or using oxygen.

Using space heaters with care.

Keeping escape routes clear and practicing exit drills.

Installing and testing smoke detectors monthly.

Barbecue Fire Safety

Grill Smart, Grill Safe

Enjoy outdoor cooking while staying safe:

Never grill indoors or near combustibles.

Check gas connections with soapy water before lighting.

Use long-handled tools and approved starter fluids.

Dispose of ashes safely and only after they are cool.

Dryer and Vent Maintenance

Stop Lint from Starting Fires

Clothes dryers account for thousands of fires yearly. Prevent fires by:

Cleaning the lint trap before every use.

Inspecting and cleaning dryer vents annually.

Never running dryers when you're not home.

Smoking Fire Safety

Put It Out Before It Puts You at Risk

Smoking while tired or impaired can be deadly. To prevent fires:

Don’t smoke in bed or on upholstered furniture.

Use deep, heavy ashtrays.

Never smoke near oxygen.

Keep matches and lighters away from children.

Chimney Fire Safety

Creosote Can Kill

A blocked or dirty chimney is a serious fire hazard. Steps for prevention:

Have chimneys inspected and cleaned annually.

Burn only seasoned hardwood.

Install a chimney cap and carbon monoxide detector.

Keep combustibles away from stoves and chimneys.

Holiday Fire Safety

Celebrate Without Catastrophe

Holiday decorations increase fire risks. Be safe by:

Using only flame-resistant or flame-retardant materials.

Keeping trees hydrated and away from heat.

Unplugging lights before bed or leaving.

Avoiding candles near trees or drapes.

Carbon Monoxide Awareness

The Silent Killer

Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and deadly. Prevention tips:

Install CO detectors near sleeping areas.

Service appliances annually.

Never run gas-powered engines in enclosed spaces.

If a CO alarm sounds and you feel sick, evacuate and call 911.

Fire Extinguisher Know-How

Know the PASS Method

Every home should have an ABC-rated fire extinguisher. Learn how to use it:

Pull the pin.

Aim at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the handle.

Sweep side to side.

Only use an extinguisher on small, contained fires - and always call 911 first.

Candle Fire Safety

Beautiful - But Dangerous

Candles can cause deadly fires. Follow these rules:

Keep candles 2 feet from anything flammable.

Never leave burning candles unattended.

Use sturdy, non-tip holders.

Don’t allow children to use candles in bedrooms or dorms.

Smoke Alarms & Escape Planning

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Smoke alarms and an escape plan can double your chances of survival:

Install alarms on every level and in every sleeping area.

Test alarms monthly, change batteries twice a year.

Develop and practice a two-exit escape plan.

Conduct night drills and ensure everyone can self-evacuate.