How to Keep Your Dining Room Safe From Fire Hazards

Your dining room may seem relatively safe, but it can have hidden fire dangers. Since you might not use your dining room often, it's a good idea to check for potential hazards from time to time.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Standard 9-volt Batteries
• Surge Protectors
• Carbon Monoxide Detector
• Smoke Detectors
• Smoke Detectors
• Fire Extinguishers
• Fire Extinguishers
• Combination Smoke/carbon Monoxide Detectors

1. Check all the electrical wires and cords of appliances you use in the dining room. Make sure cords are not frayed. Check on electric lights in china cabinets, especially antiques.

2. Avoid using extension cords - use junction boxes with built-in ground fault interrupters (GFIs) instead. If there is a surge or short in the appliance, wiring or plug, the GFI will shut down the power.

3. Dispose of any broken electrical appliances.

4. Avoid placing any linens near a light in a china cabinet. The heat from the light could ignite a fire if the linens touch the bulb.

5. Make sure matches and lighters are kept out of the hands of children. Put them in high places where tiny hands can't get to them.

6. Avoid using candles in the dining room. If you choose to use them, place candles in safe, non-flammable holders and extinguish them when you leave the room.

7. Make sure long curtains and furniture don't block heater vents.

Tips & Warnings

• If you throw a dinner party, make sure that all hot foods are kept high off the ground so tiny hands can't touch hot plates and get burned.
• Practice exit drills in the home with your family to ensure a safe exit in case of fire.