Home Fire Safety

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Virginia has more than 24,000 fires per year. These fires cause more than $8.3 million per week in property loss. Children and adults over 65 are at a higher risk for dying in a fire than the rest of the population. Residents over 65 are almost 6 times more likely to die in a fire than the rest of the population.

Fire Safety Tips:

• Smoke Alarms
  • Install smoke alarms on every level and in every sleeping area of your home.
  • Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries every six months. (Refer to manufacturer’s instructions.)
  • Replace smoke alarms every ten years.
• Remove Fire Hazards
  • Keep matches, lighters, gasoline, and other flammable materials locked away, out of children’s reach.
  • Teach children to tell you when they find matches and lighters.
  • Avoid dressing children for sleep in loosefitting, 100 percent cotton garments; e.g.,oversized t-shirts.
  • Do not leave candles unattended and always keep candles away from flammable materials.
• Design and Practice a Fire Escape Plan
  • Develop and practice a home fire escape plan and designate a meeting place outside.
  • Plan your escape around your abilities.
  • Choose a safe place to meet in front of the house or apartment building.
  • Once safely outside the residence, call the fire department or 911.
  • Demonstrate how to Stop, Drop, and Roll if clothes catch on fire.
  • Teach children not to hide from firefighters; but to get out quickly and call for help from another location.
• Home Heating Safety
  • Regularly clean all types of home heating equipment.
  • Place space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything combustible or flammable.
• Cooking Safety
• • Keep a working fire extinguisher within reach in the kitchen.
  • Keep children away from cooking appliances.
  • Treat surface burns by placing them in cool water for 10-15 minutes.

Download the printable Fire Safety tip card