Fire and Burn Injury

Fire Prevention in the Home

At least 80% of all fire deaths occur in residences. Many of these fire deaths could have been prevented if home and property owners took the proper precautions to minimize fire and burn injuries.

Early warning and escape:
Many deaths and injuries during fires are caused by noxious smoke and gases, elements that can reach you long before the actual fire does. Survival when a fire occurs in the home is dependent on early warning and having a plan of escape.

Smoke detectors should be located on every floor of the home - ideally near bedrooms - and should be tested monthly. Batteries should be changed at least twice a year.

An escape plan and a backup plan should be formulated in advance of an emergency and should be rehearsed with your entire family. Small children should be included in the discussion and planning of the escape plan. The plan should also include a safe place outside of the home where the entire family can meet to make sure everyone got out safely.

In the kitchen:
Heating and cooking equipment are the number one cause of home fire injuries in the United States. Cooking equipment is estimated to be associated with more than 100,000 fires annually, which result in almost 400 deaths and 5,000 injuries.

Never leave items on the stove cooking unattended, especially when cooking at high temperatures. Hot grease, particularly, can ignite and cause a fire that will spread rapidly. Also, do not leave non-cooking items, such as towels, utensils, or potholders on a hot stove because they might catch on fire.

To prevent kitchen burn injuries in children, turn in pot handles on the stove, do not set hot items on counter or table edges, and do not place hot items on tablecloth-covered surfaces; all could result in accidental scalds and burns. Also, do not allow young children to use the microwave unsupervised. Though the microwave does not involve direct flame, some substances when microwaved can catch fire and the microwaved items can become dangerously hot.

For more information, please consult and review Your Home Fire Safety Checklist:
(www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs)

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