The best cure for a house fire is never let one start.After all, house fires claim thousands of lives a year and take down more than 20,000 houses.Even houses with smoke damage require much cleaning and many replacement items.To prevent fire, make sure your stove and oven are clean.Never leave flammable objects such as paper wrappers or plastic goods on top of heat sources such as toasters and oven eyes.Don't leave food unattended on the stove.Make sure your oven, stove, microwave and toaster are well ventilated so they will not begin a slow burn of a wall or cabinet.Next, have a professional electrician check your system for code violations.Many times electrical wiring is substandard and needs improvement or replacement.Double check the electric receptacles for heavy users such as washers and dryers.Always clean the lint filter on your dryer and every month use a vacuum to clean out any lint that is stuck inside.When using candles, make sure that flammable materials are far away.Likewise, do not smoke in bed or any other soft surface.Always use an ashtray and if possible, smoke outside.Better safe than sorry.Make sure your home has enough fire alarms to reach all bedrooms.Buy a fire extinguisher for the kitchen and keep it handy in case of a grease fire.Test fire alarms regularly and change batteries twice a year.Many people change their batteries each time the time changes.This guarantees that they will work when you need them.Space heaters must be placed carefully.At least five feet from anything flammable.This is difficult in some rooms but it is worth it.Don't leave space heaters unattended.If possible turn them off at bedtime.Or, plug them into a timer to keep them staying on too long.They tend to over heat and burn out their cords.They can also set drapes and papers on fire, if you aren't careful.Finally, figure out an escape plan in case of fire.If your prevention efforts fail, you need an escape plan.This plan can save lives, especially if you practice it with family members, especially children.Decide on a safe place to meet when your family escapes from the burning house.If necessary purchase ladders for use from upper floors.If you can afford it, you may consider a sprinkler system similar to those used in public buildings.
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