A pot holder too close to a lit burner or a space heater left on overnight could be all it takes to start a home fire. In fact, cooking and heating are among the leading causes of home fires in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
That’s why Prairie Township Fire Department is teaming up with NFPA from Oct. 5-11 to urge residents to “Prevent Home Fires” during Fire Prevention Week. This year’s campaign focuses on preventing all the leading causes of home fires – cooking, heating and electrical equipment, and smoking materials.
According the latest research from NFPA, more than 2,500 people died in home fires in the United States in 2006, and 12,500 were injured. Fire departments responded to 396,000.
“While the number of home fires is daunting, the good news is that many are easily preventable when residents take simple steps to increase their safety from fire,” said Jim Troesch from the Prairie Township Fire Department Division of Public Education. “Whether it’s smoking outside the home, keeping space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, or staying in the kitchen when you are using the stovetop, there are easy things you can do to keep your home and family safe from fire.”
Do you know how to keep your home safe from fire hazards? Reviewing the following information and taking action can help you “Prevent Home Fires” during Fire Prevention Week and year-round.
•Cooking: Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period time, turn off the stove.
•Heating: Keep all things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least three feet away from heating equipment.
•Electrical: Replace cracked and damaged electrical cords; use extension cords for temporary wiring only. Consider having additional circuits or receptacles added by a qualified electrician.
•Smoking: If you smoke, smoke outside. Wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays.
The Prairie Township Fire Department has invited Prairie Township residents to stop by one of the local fire stations. While you are there pick up information on how to “Prevent House Fires,” talk to the firefighters about fire safety and take a tour of the fire stations at 123 Inah Ave. or 451 Hubbard Road.
For more information, call the Prairie Township Fire Department at 614-878-4571.
