Washer / Dryer
Dryers and washing mahines were involved in 1 out of every 21 home structure fires reported to U.S. Fire Departments from 1999-2002
Tips
- Do not operate the dryer without a lint filter. Clean lint filters before or after each use and remove accumulated lint from around the drum
- Make sure that the dryer is plugged into an outlet suitable for its electrical needs as overloaded electrical outlets can result in blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers
- Turn the dryer off when you leave your home
- Keep the dryer area clear of combustibles (i.e., boxes of clothing)
- Dryers should be installed and serviced by a professional
- Have gas powered dryers inspected by a professional regularly to ensure that the gas line and connection are intact
Cooking
Cooking fires are the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Nearly all cooking equipment fires start with the ignition of food, other cooking materials (e.g. grease, cooking oil), or other items normally found or installed in a kitchen (e.g. cabinets, wall coverings, paper or plastic bags)
Tips For Kitchen Safety
- Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn off the stove.
- Keep anything that can catch fire - potholders, towels or curtains - away from your stove top
- Have a "kid-free zone" of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
- Wear short, close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can dangle onto stove burners and catch fire.
- Never use a wet oven mitt, as it presents a scald danger if the moisture in the mit is heated
- If there is an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed to prevent flames from burning you and your clothing. Have the oven serviced before you use it again.
Smoke Detectors
Smoke alarms play a vital role in reducing deaths and injuries from fire and have contributed to the almost 50% decrease in fire deaths since the late 1970s. It is estimated that the 95%