Illinois Fire Safety Alliance: Home Fires

The major causes of home fires include hearting equipment, electrical appliances, matches, cooking and smoking. A major goal of the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance is to reduce the number of fires in the home. The following information lists some activities that could reduce the possibility of your home becoming a fire statistic.....
KITCHEN
1. All electric appliances and tools should have a testing agency label such as UL (Underwriters Laboratories).
2. Have appliances repaired if they aren't working properly.
3. Do no overload outlets.
4. Do not store things above the stove.
LIVING OR FAMILY ROOM
1. Use large ashtrays.
2. Before you go to bed, check cushions for burning cigarettes.
3. Use a metal fireplace screen. Never dispose of fireplace ashes incombustible containers.
4. Put lighters and matches where children won't find them.
5. Allow air space around the TV and stereo to prevent overheating. If the TV doesn't work right, it can be a fire danger. Have it checked or repaired.
6. Keep portable heaters away for combustibles.
7. Have chimneys cleaned and inspected once a year.
GARAGE AND STORAGE
1. Store gasoline and other flammables in tight metal containers. Don't use flammable liquids near heat, a pilot light. or while smoking.
2. Have heating equipment checked annually.
3. Clean up your work bench. Keep flammables away for sparks.
4. Sort and remove rubbish. Do not store thing near the furnace or heater.
OUTDOORS
1. Never use gasoline on a grill fire. Once the fire has started never use lighter fluid.
2. Move your lawnmower away form gasoline fumes before starting. Let the motor cool before refueling it.
3. If your roof needs replacing, give serious consideration to using non-combustible roofing materials.
BEDROOM
1. Do not smoke in bed or a chair.
2. Do not overload electrical outlets.