‘Tis
the season for at-home entertaining – food, friends, family, fun and
yes, even fires. Fire fighters respond to calls of nearly 400,000 home
fires each year, according to the National Fire Prevention Association
(NFPA). Many fires occur in cold weather months as more people bring
warmth into their homes with things like traditional candles or holiday
lighting. These fires result in more than 15,000 civilian deaths or
injuries annually.
Fire-proof the holiday season with these tips that safeguard your family and your home:
Go flameless
Reduce
your risk of fire by using Scentsy flameless candles. Though they look
and smell like real candles, they don’t pose the same safety risks. http://charitajones.scentsy.us provide
the light and ambiance of traditional candles without the smoke, soot
or an open flame. With more than 80 fragrances to choose from and 100
styles of warmers available, there’s a fit for every fragrance
personality and home decor style.
Avoid outlet overload
Don’t
overload electrical outlets and extension cords with holiday lights or
other electronics. Plug only one heat-producing appliance, such as
electric blankets, irons, toasters or coffee makers, into a receptacle
outlet at a time. Consider avoiding outlet overload by choosing
battery-powered options when they’re available.
Cook with care
Unattended
cooking is the leading cause of U.S. home fire injuries, according to
the NFPA. Don’t stray too far from the kitchen if you’re frying,
grilling or broiling food. If you’re boiling, baking, or roasting, be
sure to check it regularly and use a timer to remind you when it’s
finished. Plug microwave ovens and other cooking appliances directly
into an outlet. Never use an extension cord for a cooking appliance, as
it can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
Be prepared
Establish
a fire-safe home by installing fire extinguishers and smoke alarms. Use
a portable fire extinguisher to save lives and property by putting out
or containing small fires. Store extinguishers where they can be quickly
accessed in areas with great fire risk, such as in the kitchen or near
the garage door. Smoke alarms should be installed in every room of the
home, except for the kitchen, and should be tested once each month.
Have a plan
Establish
a fire escape plan with the members of your household, and practice it
often. You should always have two ways to exit each room, typically a
door and a window. Practicing in a casual environment will help children
feel confident in executing your plan in an emergency. Choose a
landmark outside, such as a tree in the neighbor’s yard or the mailbox,
as a meeting location for your family.
Following
these fire safety tips will help ensure your memories of this fall and
winter season are full of friends and family, not flames.
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