The average family has dozens of electronic devices in their household (computers, printers, game consoles, televisions, monitors), a significant increase compared to 20 years ago. Every year there are more than 3 million accidental fires and more than 5,000 deaths.

Because flame retardant chemicals are used to coat the components of electronic devices, in the event of a fire, flame retardants give escape times of up to 15 times longer; the difference between two minutes and 25 minutes saves lives.

When it comes to fire safety in the home, most people focus on the kitchen and smoke detectors. However, the many electronic devices in our homes mean the family room and home office deserve their own fire safety audit.

Here are four tips that are easy to implement and will enhance the fire safety of your home:

1. Electrical outlets: Make sure an electrical outlet is properly grounded and has the sufficient power rating. A surge protector provides a safe and reliable connector to the wall outlet and can handle the demands of any electronic device. The models with multiple outlets can accommodate computer-related paraphernalia, such as CPU, monitor, printer and speakers. DO NOT use a standard extension cord suitable for a vacuum cleaner to connect electronic devices to the wall outlet.

2. Computer: When you walk away from your PC for an extended period, turn off the monitor. Because monitors generate high voltage internally, they may potentially start an electric fire or trigger an explosion in a combustible environment. There’s a small button, usually in the lower right hand corner of the screen’s frame to click the monitor off; you can click it on again when you return and resume using the computer.

3. Television and entertainment centers: If your TV sits in a cabinet or on any wooden furniture, make sure there is sufficient space around the set for air to circulate. Similarly, keep cloths, newspapers and other potentially flammable items away from all vents on the TV set.

4. Fire extinguisher: A dry chemical fire extinguisher is appropriate for electrical fires, so purchase one and keep it safely stored nearby. If you do use it, be careful to clean up all the powder afterwards. The powder that has been discharged can cause a short circuit in electronic equipment.

Most electronic products include components that are coated with a flame retardant, an invisible chemical shield. Flame retardants are designed to save lives and property by reducing the spread of accidental fires to allow everyone in the room enough time to escape or extinguish the fire.

Fire Safety For All is dedicated to providing safety tips like these to help prevent fires and fire-related deaths and injuries.  If you have a fire safety tip you’d like to share, please email editor@firesafetyforall.com.