Over 4,000 people in the United States die in house fires each year and some 20,000 are injured. That’s more people than die or are injured in all natural disasters combined. Fire is a very real threat to your life, health, and property.
Fortunately, most home fires can be prevented by following simple safety guidelines. Your risk of injury or death in a fire can be reduced if you know how to help yourself and those around you in case a fire does break out in your home.
The two most important home fire safety guidelines:
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and in rooms where people sleep at night.
- Make a home evacuation plan and practice at least once a year, especially if you have small children or disabled persons living with you.
Common Causes of House Fires
You can reduce the odds of having a fire in your home by managing risks form the most common causes of house fires: cooking, smoking, candles, electrical appliances, and fireplaces and other heating devices.
Know What to do in Case of Fire
In case a fire should break out in your home you should know how to escape from a fire.
Persons who are older, disabled or who live with small children or older or disabled people should consider taking special precautions.