Home Safety Tips

Propane Barbecue Grills

1. These steps must be taken before using a gas-fired barbecue.
2. Read all the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly.
3. Gas-fired barbecues are to be utilized by adults - never by children.
4. Gas-fired barbecues must never be used in any structure or on any balcony. When not in use they should be stored in a shaded open area, away from any structure.
5. Flammable gas cylinders have a left-hand thread. (This is the reverse of normal threading and they are tightened by turning counterclockwise).
6. Check all connections with soapy water to detect leaks.
7. Never transport cylinders in the trunk of the car - put the cylinder on the floor in an upright position with all windows open.
8. Empty rusty cylinders should be replaced.

Housekeeping For Fire Prevention

1. Keep escape routes clear. Make sure windows and doors are not blocked and can be opened easily.
2. Don't store anything under stairs. Keep stairs and hallways free of clutter.
3. Keep matches and lighters away from children. Store them in a safe place.
4. Store oily rags in covered metal containers. Or, better yet, throw them and paint rags out.
5. Keep rubbish and anything away from heat sources. Such as the kitchen cooking range and oven, furnace and portable heaters.
6. Don't throw ashes or smoking materials in wastebaskets. Always place ashes in covered metal containers outside your home and garage.
7. Clean up spills immediately. Clean up work areas after each use, especially sawdust, oil and grease.

Appliances

1. Unplug heating appliances (irons, toasters, etc.) after each use.
2. Replace or repair any appliance that sparks or smokes.
3. Make sure TVs and stereos have space for air circulation.
4. Remove lint from the clothes dryer filter after each use.
5. Check the water level in heating equipment when in use weekly.

Cooking

1. Never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking.
2. Keep the range, oven, and vent fan clean and grease free.
3. Keep children away from the range and oven when cooking.
4. Turn the pot and pan handles inward, and cook on the back burners first when you can.
5. Use potholders or oven mitts - never towels or other cloths.
6. Keep curtains and paper towels away from the range and oven area.
7. Don't wear long, loose-fitting sleeves when cooking.

Flammable Liquids

1. Use flammable liquids far away from heat sources in a well-ventilated area.
2. Refuel motors and portable heaters outside, after they have cooled.
3. Never smoke around flammable liquids.
4. Never use gasoline indoors, to light a fire, or to clean paint brushes.

Heating Equipment Safety

1. Have your furnace inspected and cleaned yearly by a professional.
2. Check your chimney for cracks and loose bricks. Have the chimney cleaned regularly.
3. Always use a fire screen with your fireplace.
4. Never use your range or oven for heating or for drying clothes.

Electrical Safety

1. Do not overload circuits or outlets.
2. Replace any electrical cords that are not in good condition.
3. Do not run electrical cords through doorjambs or under rugs or furniture.
4. Avoid using extension cords - if you must, make sure the rating is right for the job.
5. Have all electrical work conform to the local electrical code and by a professional electrician.

Fire Prevention: "The Best Way To Stop Fires Is To Prevent Them"

1. Install smoke detectors on all levels of your home. Follow the directions provided when purchasing smoke detectors.
2. Plan a fire escape (at least once every 6 months).
3. Each person should use a primary and alternate escape route.
4. Never re-enter a burning building or home.
5. Have an outside meeting place.
6. Stay calm.