How to Prevent a House Fire

House fires kill thousands of people annually in the United States. Sadly, most house fires can be prevented, no matter what the cause. There are a few simple things you should do to prevent a fire in your house. Follow these steps to help keep your house safe from fire and ensure that all you own doesn't go up in flames.

Instructions

1. Clean clothes dryer vents. Lint building up in dryer vents can heat up and cause a fire. Vents should be cleaned every six months.

2. Keep kitchen towels and oven mitts away from stoves while cooking. Also keep an eye on pots while cooking. Fires can start from over-boiling pots.

3. Examine electrical wiring in your home, especially if it is an older home. Faulty electrical wiring is a leading cause of house fires. Have a professional electrician check the wiring in your house and replace any, if needed, to prevent a fire.

4. Repair or replace any faulty appliances. If you're not a professional, hire a licensed technician. Have broken appliances repaired by a professional or replace them to keep your home safe from a fire.

5. Make sure curtains, clothing and blankets are kept away from baseboard or electric heaters. Keep curtains several inches above heaters, and never dry clothes on heaters.

6. Blow out candles when you leave a room for any length of time. Avoid leaving candles burning, if you're not in the room. A fire caused by a candle can spread quickly throughout the house.

7. Clean fireplaces regularly to prevent a fire from starting in the chimney. Check a gas furnace before use every year. Keep vents for all heating systems clean and clear on a regular basis.

Tips & Warnings

• Cleaning your dryer vents when you change your clocks in spring and fall is a great way to make sure you are cleaning the vents every six months.

• Test smoke alarms every month and replace batteries if needed. Even hard-wired smoke alarms should have battery back-up. Make sure these batteries are working.

• Keep matches and lighters locked away from children.

• If you smoke, do not do so while in bed or if you're sleepy. Falling asleep with a lit cigarette on a couch or in bed is one of the leading causes of fatal house fires.