The goal of this checklist is to make your home safe from fire and injuries. If you believe a hazard exists in your home, please call 262-4792 for information on how to correct the hazard.
Kitchen
- Appliances are clean and in good condition, i.e., electrical cords, burner elements, switches, etc.
- All cleaners, matches, lighters, or other dangerous chemicals are stored out of the reach and sight of children.
- A current ABC (for all types of fire) or BC (for grease, flammable liquid and electrical fires), fire extinguisher is mounted in the kitchen. Be familiar with how to use it before you have to use it.
- Use appliances safely by unplugging them when not in use and keeping them away from the sink and stove.
Reminder:
- When cooking, turn pot handles in and away from other burners.
- When cooking, avoid wearing clothes with loose flowing sleeves.
- Wipe up grease, water and other spilled liquids or food to avoid slip hazards.
Smoke Detectors
- A smoke detector is properly mounted outside of each sleeping area, and on every level of the home.
- Smoke detectors are less than ten years old.
- There is a battery back up in hardwire detectors or a battery operated smoke detector near by.
- Every smoke detector is tested monthly.
- Every smoke detector battery has been replaced in the last year.
Living Room/Bedrooms
- Large, deep ashtrays are available for smokers in the home.
- Fireplaces and wood stoves have metal screens or doors to contain sparks and cinders.
- A metal container is used for removal and disposal of hot ashes.
- Chimneys are professionally cleaned yearly.
- All portable heating appliances have three feet of clearance from combustibles such as furniture, curtains, and bedding.
- Portable heaters are UL listed.
- Electric blankets should be untucked, unfolded, and uncovered by other bedding.
- Extension cords are uncovered and free from damage. They should not be used as permanent wiring.
- Outlets are not overloaded.
Reminder:
- Never smoke in bed.
Garage
- All gasoline, other flammable liquids, and hazardous chemicals are stored in approved storage containers.
- Keep oily rags in a closed, metal container.
Exterior
- Address numbers are at least 5" high and clearly visible from the street.
- Firewood is stacked at least ten feet from the side of the house.
- All open flame cooking appliances such as charcoal grills and barbecues are three feet from the house.
- Security bars on windows have a quick release button.
Reminder:
- If you live in the wildland or hillside area, feel free to call our Wildland Risk Manager at 385-7246 for information on creating a fire safe zone around your home.
Utility Room
- Hot water heaters and furnaces have three feet of clearance from any combustible.
- All flammable liquids and poisonous chemicals have been removed.
Bathroom
- Adjust water heater to a safe temperature of no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep appliances such as hair dryers, radios, and electric shavers away from water.
Reminder:
- Placing non-skid mats or appliqués and well-secured grab bars in bathtubs and shower will lower the risk of slips and falls.
General
- The family has a home escape plan.
- The family has completed an exit drill in the last six months.
- There are 9-1-1 stickers attached to every phone.
- All matches and lighters are kept out of the reach and sight of children.
- A carbon monoxide detector is mounted near every sleeping area.
- Upper floors have home escape ladders in bedrooms.
Reminder:
- Use light bulbs that are the appropriate wattage for their fixture.
- Secure throw rugs and runners so that they don’t become trip hazards.
- Keep hallways, staircases, and pathways free of obstructions.
- All family members should be familiar with how to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches on fire.
