5 choices that can save your family’s lives

Fire safety can seem abstract and something we take for granted. Yet, we make choices every day that keep us safe from fire, in our purchases of ordinary items and our behavior.
Many of these choices are made instinctively, without much thought. For example, when we strike a match to light a candle, we immediately choose to blow the match flame out, rather than letting it burn.

There are, however, conscious choices that we consumers can make that will heighten our personal safety, as well as the fire safety of our home, loved ones, property and workplace.

Here are five smart choices that everyone should make:

1. Choose an outdoor grill carefully: Whether you use charcoal or gas as the energy source, keep the area around the grill clear of paper and flammable items. According to the United States Fire Administration, “propane is the power source in 69% of all grill fires on residential properties,” usually due to mechanical failure or leaks in the fuel hoses. The tips on cleaning and maintenance by the National Fire Protection Association indicate that, at the start of the season, consumers should apply lightly soapy water to the hose connecting the fuel and the grill will help detect a leak prior to preparing a propane grill for use. The formation of a bubble indicates the presence of a leak, and the hose should be replaced. All types of barbecues, grills and hibachis are inherently dangerous, so always store the grill and related fuel source safely after each use. Read more grilling safety tips here.

2. Select a date to check batteries in your smoke detector: Twice a year, remove the batteries and look them over to ensure there is no leakage that will affect their performance. Choose any two dates that suit your personal or family calendar; many fire safety officials recommend the dates that start and end Daylight Savings Time as a semi-annual reminder. Replace the batteries once each year.

3. Upgrade extension cords to surge protectors: Surge protectors are the preferred type of electrical extension cords. Choose one with at least five outlets, especially for computers; most models are designed to accommodate the related equipment of CPU, monitor, speakers and printer. Generally, surge protectors are designed with an internal circuit breaker that will control the electricity flow if the power strip is over loaded or suffers a short circuit.

4. Purchase a fire extinguisher: The dry chemical fire extinguisher is designed for home use, and will put out electrical fires. Store it safely near the kitchen, which is where many fires start, and check the pressure gauge annually.

5. Do not smoke anything, cigarettes, pipe or cigars: Smoking is the leading cause of residential fires. Choose to quit smoking, or, better yet, never start.

Consumers may not recognize that they have a role to play and choices to make in fire safety, because many potential fire dangers are managed through government regulations regarding hazardous materials. Reviewing these examples, it is clear that consumers should occasionally reflect upon their choices by following the time frame for suggested periodic checks, or by adhering to guidelines for safe usage.

These choices, then, affect our learned behavior, and mark the start of incorporating fire safety awareness into our everyday lives, so we can protect our homes, workplaces and families from the danger of fire.

To stay up-to-date on fire safety information, you can also check out Citizens for Fire Safety, a nonprofit organization with an emphasis on fire safety education.