Hazards in Your home

Kitchen:

• Matches and lighters stored out of reach of children
• No overloaded outlets or extension cords
• No worn or frayed extension cords, or appliance cords
• If an electrical appliance smokes or smells unusual, unplug immediately and have it serviced
• No curtains or towels near any appliance that produces heat
• Flammable liquids or aerosols stored away from the range or other heat source
• Nothing above the stove that you may have to reach for
• Have an ABC extinguisher available for use

Living Room, Family Room, Den, Bedrooms:

• Matches and lighters stored out of reach of children
• Empty ashtrays frequently, when all signs of heat and burning are gone
• Keep fireplace screens in place and clean chimneys regularly
• Replace worn or frayed extension cords or other electrical cords
• Don't run extension cords under rugs or carpets
• Don't loop extension cords over nails or other sharp objects
• Heating equipment kept three feet away from curtains, furniture, and papers
• Don't overload outlets or extension cords

Basement, Garage, Storage Areas:

• No newspapers or other rubbish stored near furnace, water heater, or other heat sources
• No storage of oily or greasy rags, except when kept in a labeled and sealed metal container
• No gasoline stored in the house or basement
• No flammable liquids stored near workbench or pilot light
• Store flammable liquids only in containers that were designed for such use
• No overloaded outlets or extension cords
• All fuses of the correct size. Do not tamper with fuses or wiring

  
  Top 10 burn prevention tips

  Courtesy of the International Association of Fire Fighters Burn Foundation

  1. Gas Stations: Did you know that using your cell phone while pumping gas is dangerous? So is getting in and out of your car while filling up. Both activities generate static electricity that can spark and ignite gasoline vapors. Should this happen, do not remove the nozzle from you car. Let the fire burn itself out. Before starting to pump, touch a metal object with your hand to get rid of any built up static electricity.
  2. Loose Clothing: Tuck in all clothing around any open flame. The flames from a grill, fireplace or campfire will ignite loose clothing instantly.
  3. Careless Smoking: If you choose to smoke, dispose of the matches and cigarettes carefully.
  4. Car Repairs: Don't hurt or injure yourself while repairing your car. Use caution when working on a car battery, radiator or other hot engine parts.
  5. Too Much Sun: Enjoy the sun, but don't push your luck. Always wear protective clothing and sunscreen. A bad burn today could become skin cancer in the future.
  6. Lit Candles: Lit candles are open flames. Keep candles away from hair, clothing, and curtains. Never go to sleep or leave the room while a candle is burning.
  7. Refueling Hot Engines: Never add fuel to a hot lawnmower or motorbike. Wait until it's cooled off to avoid a potential fire.
  8. Aerosol Sprays: Never light a match near an aerosol can. Many children are seriously injured each year by this dangerous activity.
  9. Hair Dryers: Dry your hair with care. Believe it or ot, hair can be pulled into the dryer and catch on fire. Read the instructions on the dryer before using it.
  10. Hot Foods or Liquids: Take extra care in the kitchen. Use oven mitts to carry hot liquids and foods. And always follow the directions when using a microwave oven.

  IAFF Burn Foundation 1750 New York Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20006

  Telephone: (202) 737-8484 Fax: (202) 737-8418 www.iaffburnfund.org