1. Every Home Should Have at Least One Working Smoke Alarm

Smoke alarms are not expensive at all, in fact you can buy a smoke alarm at any hardware or discount store, and it will usually cost you less than $10. It's inexpensive protection for you and your family. Most of the smoke alarms you purchase at a hardware or discount store are very easy to install, and can be installed in a matter of minutes. It would be best to install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. It is fact that while they are not full proof, a working smoke alarm can double your chances of survival. So, make sure yours is working: test it monthly, keep it free of dust and replace the battery at least once a year. Smoke alarms themselves should be replaced after ten years of service, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

2. Prevent Electrical Fires

The best way to prevent electrical fires is to never overload circuits or extension cords. This is the most common problem. Also, be sure you do not place cords and wires under rugs, over nails or in high traffic areas. As a fire safety precaution, and a great way to prevent electrical fires, you should immediately shut off and unplug appliances that sputter, spark or emit an unusual smell. Be sure to have them professionally repaired before you turn them back on, or have them replaced.

3. Use Appliances Wisely

Another no brainer fire safety tip is to use appliances only for what they should be used for. Follow the manufacturer's safety precautions. Overheating, unusual smells, shorts and sparks are all warning signs that appliances need to be shut off, then replaced or repaired. Also, be sure to unplug appliances when not in use, especially items like the toaster. And, to avoid fires caused by children and appliance, use safety caps to cover all unused outlets.

4. Alternate Heaters

If you are using an alternate heater, your chances of fire increase significantly. One fire safety tip is if using a portable heater, remember it needs space. Keep anything combustible at least three feet away.

If you have a fireplace, it is important to remember to keep fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually. The creosote buildup can ignite a chimney fire that could easily spread to other parts of the house.
Kerosene heaters should be used only where approved by authorities. Never use gasoline or camp-stove fuel. Refuel outside and only after the heater has cooled.

5. Affordable Home Fire Safety Sprinklers

A great thing you can do fir fire safety is install fire sprinklers. When home fire sprinklers are used with working smoke alarms, your chances of surviving a fire are greatly increased. Many people think that sprinklers are not something they can afford to put in. However, not only are sprinklers affordable, they can increase property value and lower insurance rates.

6. Plan Your Escape

A huge part of fire safety is having a plan should a fire ever occur in your home. You should practice an escape plan from every room in the house. Tell everyone in your family that should a fire occur, they should stay low to the floor when escaping from fire and never to open doors that are hot. Select a location where everyone can meet after escaping the house. Get out then call for help.

7. Teaching Children

When it comes to fire safety one of the best things you can do is teach your children about fire, and the dangers of fire. Children under five are naturally curious about fire. Many play with matches and lighters. Children set over 20,000 house fires every year. Teach your children that fire is a tool, not a toy, and you will reduce your chances of fire significantly.