None of us expect our home to burn down today.  In fact, we really hope it doesn’t. But because we never know just what will happen in life, it’s always the best policy to be prepared. Here are some great basic tips on how to create a fire safe home:

1. Create a fire escape plan for every room and make sure everyone in your family understands it. Have a fire drill so everyone can practice getting out, meeting outside in a designated area. Here is a link to a site where you can create your own escape plan online.
2. Make sure there are smoke detectors installed on every floor and in every bedroom, and change the batteries promptly when they need new ones. Also make sure you replace the smoke detectors every 10 years.
3. Place fire extinguishers in the furnace room and kitchen.
4. Store fire-escape ladders, fireproof blankets, masks, and flashlights in an upper-story bedroom.
5. Make sure your fire insurance is up-to-date.
6. Be careful with electrical equipment. Don’t overload your circuits or extension cords. Don’t put cords under rugs, near nails, or in high traffic areas. Don’t use appliances that spark, overheat, or emit strange smells.
7. Keep space heaters 3 feet away from other items. If you have a fireplace, keep it covered with a screen.
8. Have a professional install a sprinkler system inside your home. It is actually pretty affordable and increases your chances of survival if a fire occurs, increases the value of your home, and may lower insurance rates too!
9. Make your kids aware of the dangers of fire from a young age so they won’t be as tempted to play with it.