Check Out This Fire-Prevention Checklist, Regarding Women, Fall 2004
Check Out This Fire-Prevention Checklist
More than 4,000 people die in home fires every year. Fortunately, though, most fires can be prevented. Take these steps:
- Make sure all space heaters have a UL—Underwriter’s Laboratory—label on them that ensures they’ve been tested for safety. Keep them at least three feet away from things that burn easily, such as fabric and newspapers. And never leave them on while you’re sleeping. Roll up loose sleeves before cooking, and keep pot holders, plastic utensils, and towels well away from the stovetop. Never smoke in bed. Keep matches and cigarette lighters away from children, too. Nearly one-third of deaths from home fires are smoking-related.
- Store flammable liquids—including gasoline and paint thinner—well away from hot-water heaters and furnaces.
Also, be sure to install at least one smoke detector on each level of your home. Test them monthly, and replace their batteries at least once a year.
The editorial content for this article was taken from the print version of Regarding Women. Click here to sign up for future editions of Regarding Women.
Email this link
Print this page