Decorate Christmas trees with consumer-inspected lights
and double-check for frayed wires. Don't overload
electric outlets. Check the power capacity of your house
and stay within wattage limits.
Keep presents away from the tree lights. Keep the tree
well watered, as dry trees burn explosively. Do not
place the tree near a fireplace or an exit.
Do
not burn gift wrappings in the fireplace, as this can
cause a chimney fire.
If
you use candles, place them in a safe place away from
any flammable material. Be sure all children know the
dangers of candles, chafing dishes, potpourri scent
pots, the fireplace and space heaters.
Keep clutter away from the stove while cooking., If
grease catches fire, do not throw water on it. Cover the
pan with a lid. In order to avoid injury, turn pot
handles in over the stove and never wear loose clothing
while cooking. Don't leave cooking food unattended for
extended periods of time, since this is the most common
cause of cooking-related fires.
Buy and install a smoke detector. If you already have
one, clean and test it. A working smoke detector can
double your chances of survival.
Practice home fire drills. Designate two exits from
every room, make sure all family members are aware of an
outside meeting place, and get out quickly.
Know your community's emergency telephone numbers and
how to call for help
