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Educational Messages Advisory Committee

The Educational Messages Advisory Committee meets annually to review NFPA’s fire safety education messages and to provide recommendations to NFPA public education staff for updating and revising the messages. The messages are used throughout NFPA’s educational programs, curricula and handouts and provide fire and life safety educators with accurate and consistent language for use when offering safety information to the public. Each topic area is self-contained, written so that all the information needed on a certain subject is provided within that category. As a result, some messaging may be repeated throughout topic areas.

NEW! Comments now being accepted on NFPA fire safety education messages. Submit comments (PDF, 117 KB); deadline is May 14, 2010

• Regulations governing education messages (PDF, 221 KB)
• Committee action on proposed changes (PDF, 103 KB)  

NFPA convened a task group to consider a range of issues, including nuisance alarms and the speed of response for both types of alarms. For the best protection, both types of alarms or a combination alarm (photoelectric and ionization) should be installed in homes.

1.0  Smoke alarms

1.1   Fire deaths – no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms

• 1.1.1 Working smoke alarms save lives and should be installed and maintained in every home.
• 1.1.2  Roughly two-thirds of home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms at all or no smoke alarms that work.

1.2   Installation

• 1.2.1  As a minimum, install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area,   and on every level of the home, including the basement. Larger homes may require additional smoke alarms to provide a minimum level of protection.
• 1.2.2  For the best protection, interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• 1.2.3  Wireless battery-operated interconnected smoke alarms are now available.
• 1.2.4  An ionization smoke alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires and a photoelectric smoke alarm is generally more responsive to smoldering fires. For the best protection or where extra time is needed to awaken or assist others, both types of alarms or combination ionization and photoelectric alarms are recommended.
• 1.2.5  Choose a smoke alarm that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• 1.2.6  Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should not be closer than 10 feet to a cooking appliance.
• 1.2.7  A smoke alarm between 10 and 20 feet of a cooking appliance must have a hush feature, which temporarily reduces the sensitivity of the alarm, or be a photoelectric type.

1.3  Testing

• 1.3.1  Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. 
• 1.3.2  Make sure everyone in your home knows the sound of the smoke alarm.

1.4  Deaf

• 1.4.1  Smoke alarms are available for people who are deaf. These alarms use strobe lights to wake the person. Vibration equipment - pillow or bed shakers- is now required. This equipment is available and is activated by the sound of the smoke alarm.

1.5  Older Adults or hard of hearing

• 1.5.1 Recent research has shown that as people age, their ability to hear high-pitched sounds decreases. A smoke alarm accessory that has a low pitched sound is more effective for all age groups. This equipment is now required and is activated by the sound of the smoke alarm.

1.6  Voice alarms

• 1.6.1  Smoke alarms that include a recordable voice announcement in addition to the usual alarm sound may be helpful in waking children with the use of a familiar voice. 

1.7  Battery replacement

• 1.7.1  Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries are designed to remain effective for 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away. For smoke alarms with any other type of battery, replace batteries at least once a year. If that alarm chirps, replace only the battery.

1.8  Smoke alarm replacement

• 1.8.1  Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or sooner if they do not respond properly when tested.

2.0   Carbon Monoxide

2.1  Dangers of Carbon Monoxide

•   2.1.1  Carbon monoxide (CO), often called the silent killer, is an invisible, odorless, colorless gas created when fuels (such as kerosene, gasoline, wood, coal, natural gas, propane, oil, and methane, etc) burn incompletely.
• 2.1.2  Carbon monoxide can result from faulty furnaces or other heating appliances, portable generators, water heaters, clothes dryers, or cars left running in garages.
• 2.1.3  Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include headache, nausea, and drowsiness.
• 2.1.4  Extremely high levels of poisoning can be fatal, causing death within minutes.

2.2  Installation

• 2.2.1  Install CO alarms inside your home to provide early warning of carbon monoxide.
• 2.2.2  CO alarms should be installed in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home and in other locations where required by applicable laws, codes or standards. For the best protection, interconnect all CO alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• 2.2.3  Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placement and mounting height.
• 2.2.4  Combination smoke and CO alarms must be installed in accordance with requirements for smoke alarms.
• 2.2.5  Choose a CO alarm that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• 2.2.6  When installing your CO alarm, call your local fire department’s non-emergency number to find out what number to call if the CO alarm sounds. Post that number by your telephone(s). Make sure everyone in the household knows the difference between the fire emergency and CO emergency numbers, if there is a difference.
• 2.2.7 CO alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and CO alarms.

2.3  Testing and Replacement

• 2.3.1  Test CO alarms at least once a month and replace CO alarms according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• 2.3.2  If the audible trouble signal sounds, check for low batteries. If the battery is low, replace it. If it still sounds, call the fire department.

2.4  Carbon Monoxide Precautions – Inside the home

• 2.4.1  Have fuel-burning heating equipment (fireplaces, furnaces, water heaters, wood and coal stoves, space or portable heaters) and chimneys inspected by a professional every year.
• 2.4.2  When using a fireplace, open the damper for proper ventilation.
• 2.4.3  Never use your oven or stovetop to heat your home.
• 2.4.4  When purchasing new heating and cooking equipment, select products tested and labeled by a recognized testing laboratory.

2.5  Carbon Monoxide Precautions – Outside the home

• 2.5.1  If you need to warm a vehicle, remove it from the garage immediately after starting it. Never run a vehicle or other fueled engine or motor indoors, even if garage doors are open. Make sure the exhaust pipe of a running vehicle is not blocked with snow, ice, or other materials.
• 2.5.2  During and after a snowstorm, make sure vents for the dryer, furnace, stove, and fireplace are clear of snow build-up.
• 2.5.3  Only use barbecue grills – which can produce CO – outside. Never use them in the home, garage or near building openings.
• 2.5.4  Remember to use battery-powered lights in tents, trailers and motor homes and motor boats.

2.6  Portable Generators

• 2.6.1  Use portable generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas away from all doors, windows and vents and other building openings to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the home.
• 2.6.2  When using portable generators, install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO alarms with a battery backup in the home according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

2.7  If your CO alarm sounds

• 2.7.1  Immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door. Make sure everyone inside the home is accounted for.
• 2.7.2  Call for help from a fresh air location. Remain at a fresh air location until emergency personnel arrives to assist you.

3.0  Home Fire Escape Planning

3.1  Planning

• 3.1.1  Make a home escape plan. Draw a floor plan of each level of the home. Discuss it with all members of your household.
• 3.1.2  Have a plan for anyone who may need assistance in your home, such as young children, older adults and people with disabilities.
• 3.1.3  Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily.
• 3.1.4  Windows with security bars, grills, and window guards should have emergency release devices.
• 3.1.5  Make sure everyone in your home can hear and knows how to call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number from a cell phone or a neighbor’s phone.
• 3.1.6  Make sure everyone in the home can hear and knows how to respond to the sound of the smoke alarm.
• 3.1.7  Have a meeting place (something permanent like a tree, light pole or mailbox) a safe distance in front of the home.   
• 3.1.8  Make sure your house number can be seen from the street.  

4. 0  Making a safe escape

4.1  Smoke

• 4.1.1  Make sure everyone can hear the sound of the smoke alarms and knows what your smoke alarms sound like.
• 4.1.2  When the smoke alarm sounds, you may have only seconds or minutes to escape safely.
• 4.1.3  If there is smoke blocking your door or first way out, use your second way out.
• 4.1.4  Smoke is toxic. If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your way out.

4.2  Feel the door procedure

• 4.2.1  Before opening a door, feel the doorknob and door. If either Is hot, leave the door closed and use your second way out.

4.3  Use of escape ladders

• 4.3.1  If you have escape ladders for escaping from the second and third floors, make sure they are listed by a recognized testing laboratory. Make sure the escape ladder fits the window. Use only if all other exits are blocked. To prevent injury from a fall, only use the ladder in a real emergency.

4.4  Assistance to others during escape

• 4.4.1  Teach your children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.
• 4.4.2  Have a plan for everyone in your home who has a disability.
• 4.4.3  Practice the plan with overnight guests.
• 4.4.4  Some children and adults may not awaken to the sound of the smoke alarm. They may need help to wake up and escape.
• 4.4.5  If you can’t get to someone needing assistance, leave the home and call the fire department. Tell the fire department where the person is located.

4.5  Pets

• 4.5.1  If pets are trapped inside your home, tell firefighters right away.

4.6  Practice the escape plan

• 4.6.1  Push the smoke alarm button to start the drill.
• 4.6.2  Get out fast.
• 4.6.3  Practice using different ways out.
• 4.6.4  Close doors behind you as you leave.
• 4.6.5  Get out and stay out. Never go back inside for people or pets.
• 4.6.6   Go to your outside meeting place.
• 4.6.7  Practice the escape plan twice a year with everyone in your home. Practice at night and during the day time.
• 4.6.8  Evaluate and discuss your escape drill after it is over.

4.7 If you can’t escape

• 4.7.1 If you can’t get out, close the door and seal vents and cracks around doors with towels or tape to keep smoke out. Call 911 or the fire department. Tell them where you are and signal for help at the window with a light-colored cloth or a flashlight.

5.0  Smoking

• 5.1.1  To prevent a deadly cigarette fire, you must be alert. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.
• 5.1.2  If you smoke, smoke outside.
• 5.1.3  Never smoke in bed.
• 5.1.4  Never smoke where medical oxygen is used.
• 5.1.5  Wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays.
• 5.1.6  Do not extinguish cigarettes in potted plants or landscaping, which often contain a mixture of peat moss, shredded wood and bark that can easily ignite.
• 5.1.7  Before you throw out butts and ashes, make sure they are out. Put them out in water or sand.
• 5.1.8  Before going to bed, check under furniture cushions and other places people smoke for cigarette butts that may have fallen out of sight.

6. 0  Hotel/Motel

• 6.1.1  Choose a hotel that’s protected by both smoke alarms and fire sprinklers.
• 6.1.2  When you check in, ask the desk clerk what the fire alarm sounds like.
• 6.1.3  Read the escape plan posted in your room.
• 6.1.4  Count the number of doors between your room and the nearest two fire exits. Open the exit doors to be sure they’re unlocked.
• 6.1.5  Keep you room key by your bed and take it with you if there’s a fire. If you cannot escape, you may have to return to your room.
• 6.1.6  If you hear an alarm, leave immediately, closing all doors behind you.
• 6.1.7  Use the stairs – never use elevators during a fire.
• 6.1.8  If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit.
• 6.1.9  If all escape routes are blocked, return to your room. Shut off fans and air conditioners. Stuff wet towels or bedding in the crack around the doors and vents. Call the fire department to let them know your location. Wait at a window and signal for help with a flashlight or light-colored cloth.
• 6.1.10  Bring a flashlight; keep it near your bed.

7.0  Cooking

7.1  Stay alert.

• 7.1.1  To prevent cooking fires, you must be alert. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.

7.2  Watch what you heat!

• 7.2.1  The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.
• 7.2.2  Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• 7.2.3  If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.

7.3  Keep things that can catch fire and heat sources apart.

• 7.3.1  Keep anything that can catch fire – oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains – away from your stovetop.
• 7.3.2  Keep the stovetop, burners and oven clean.
• 7.3.3  Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can dangle onto stove burners and can catch fire if it comes in contact with a gas flame or electric burner.

7.4  Know what to do if you have a cooking fire.

• 7.4.1  Always keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts in a pan, smother the flames by carefully sliding the lid over the pan. Turn off the burner. Do not move the pan. To keep the fire from restarting, leave the lid on until the pan is completely cool.
• 7.4.2  In case of an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. After a fire, the oven should be checked and/or serviced before being used again.
•   7.4.3  When in doubt, just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain thefire. Call  9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave.
• 7.4.4  If you do try to fight the fire, be sure others are already getting out and you have a clear path to the exit.

7.5  Keep kids and pets from the cooking area.

• 7.5.1  Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
• 7.5.2  Never hold a child while cooking, drinking or carrying hot foods or liquids.
• 7.5.3  Keep pets off cooking surfaces and nearby countertops to prevent them from knocking things onto the burner.

7.6  Choose safe cooking equipment.

• 7.6.1  Always use cooking equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• 7.6.2  Follow manufacturer’s instructions and code requirements when installing, cleaning, and operating cooking equipment.
• 7.6.3  Plug microwave ovens or other cooking appliances directly into an outlet. Never use anextension cord for a cooking appliance as it can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
• 7.6.4  Check electrical cords for cracks, breaks, damage, or overheating. Repair or replace the appliance.

7.7  Microwave ovens

• 7.7.1  Place or install the microwave oven at a safe height within easy reach of all users. If possible, the face of the person using the microwave oven should always be higher than the front of the microwave oven door.
• 7.7.2  Always supervise children when they are using the microwave oven.
• 7.7.3  Use only microwave-safe cookware (containers or dishes). Never use aluminum foil or metal objects in a microwave oven.
• 7.7.4  Open microwaved food slowly, away from the face. Hot steam escaping from a container of microwaved food or the food itself can cause burns.
• 7.7.5  Never heat a baby bottle in a microwave oven because it heats liquids unevenly. Heat baby bottles in warm water.

7.8  Barbecue grills

• 7.8.1  Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. Indoor use can kill occupants by either causing a fire or CO poisoning.
• 7.8.2  Place the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• 7.8.3  Place the grill a safe distance from lawn games, play areas and foot traffic.
• 7.8.4  Keep children and pets away from the grill area: have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around the grill.
• 7.8.5  Use long-handled grilling tools to give the chef plenty of clearance from heat and flames.
• 7.8.6  Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.

7.9  Charcoal grills

• 7.9.1 Use one of the following methods to start charcoal for cooking.
• 7.9.1.1  If you use a “charcoal chimney” to start charcoal for cooking, use a long match to avoid burning your fingers when lighting the paper.
• 7.9.1.2   If you use an electrical charcoal starter be sure that you use a grounded extension cord.
• 7.9.1.3   If you choose to use lighter fluid, use only fluid intended for charcoal grills.
• 7.9.1.4   Never add charcoal starter fluid when coals or kindling have already been ignited.
• 7.9.1.5   Never use gasoline or any other flammable liquid to get the fire going.
• 7.9.1.6   Store the charcoal starter fluid out of reach of children and away from heat sources.

7.10  Propane grills

• 7.10.1  Check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year. A light soap and water solution applied to the hose will quickly reveal escaping propane by releasing bubbles. If you determine your grill has a gas leak, by smell or the soapy bubble test, and there is no flame do the following:
  • 7.10.1.1  Turn off the gas tank and grill.
  • 7.10.1.2  If the leak stops, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
  • 7.10.1.3  If the leak does not stop, call the fire department.
• 7.10.2  Use only equipment with the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to set up the grill and maintain it.
• 7.10.3  Never store propane gas tanks in buildings or garages. If you store a gas grill inside during the winter, disconnect the cylinder and leave it outside.

7.11 Turkey Fryers
NFPA discourages the use of outdoor gas-fueled turkey fryers that immerse the turkey in hot oil. These turkey fryers use a substantial quantity of cooking oil at high temperatures, and units currently available for home use pose a significant danger that hot oil will be released at some point during the cooking process. The use of turkey fryers by consumers can lead to devastating burns, or other injuries and the destruction of property.

8.0  Burns

8.1  Prevent scalds and burns in the kitchen.

• 8.1.1  Teach children that hot things burn.
• 8.1.2  Place objects so they cannot be pulled or knocked over.
• 8.1.3   Turn pot handles away from the stove’s edge.
• 8.1.4  Keep appliance cords coiled and away from counter edges.
• 8.1.5  Keep hot foods and liquids away from table and counter edges.
• 8.1.6  Use dry oven mitts or potholders. The heat from hot cookware or tableware could turn that moisture into a scald burn.
• 8.1.7  If you have young children in the home cook on the stove back burners.
• 8.1.8  When children are old enough, teach them to cook safely.

8.2  Hot tap water and scald burns

• 8.2.1 Consider installing “anti-scald” devices on tub faucets and shower heads to prevent scalds. The temperature should not exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
• 8.2.2  If you do not install “anti-scald” devices on tub faucets and shower heads, consider adjusting the thermostat setting on your water heater to no higher than 120 degrees Fahreinheit. The lower temperature lowers the risk of scalds and burns, but it also increases the risk of Legionnaire’s disease.
• 8.2.3  If you wish to lower the temperature setting on your water heater, you will need to test the temperature at the faucet. Allow water to run 3 to 5 minutes. Test the water with a meat, candy, or cooking thermometer. If the water is hotter than 120 degrees Fahrenheit, adjust the temperature of the water heater and wait a full day to allow the temperature in the tank to adjust. Retest and adjust as needed.
• 8.2.4  Before placing a child in the bath or getting into the tub yourself, test the water.
• 8.2.5  Do not leave the bathroom unattended while the tub is filling.
• 8.2.6  Fill the tub or sink, running cool water first and then add hot water. Turn hot water off first. Mix the water thoroughly and check the temperature by moving your hand, wrist, and forearm through the water. The water should feel warm to the touch.
• 8.2.7  When bathing a young child, seat the child facing away from the faucets so the child cannot reach the faucet. Turn the faucet to the “COLD” position.

8.3  Treatment of burns

• 8.3.1  Treat a burn right away, putting it in cool water. Cool the burn for three to five minutes. Cover with a clean, dry cloth. Do not apply creams, ointments, sprays or other home remedies.
• 8.3.2  If the burn is bigger than the injured person’s palm, or if there are questions, get medical help right away.
• 8.3.3  Remove all clothing, diapers, jewelry and metal from the burned area. These can hide underlying burns and retain heat thereby increasing skin damage.
• 8.3.4  Seek medical attention by calling 9-1-1 or seeing your doctor if the burn is
  • 8.3.4.1  on the face, hands, feet, major joints or genital area.
  • 8.3.4.2  white, tight, dry (leathery) or painless.
  • 8.3.4.3  caused by chemicals or electricity.
  • 8.3.4.4  not healing in 2 to 3 days, becomes foul smelling, develops thick drainage, redness or swelling around the burn, or causes a fever.

9.0  Candles

• 9.1.1  Consider using battery-operated flameless candles which can look, smell, and feel like real candles.
• 9.1.2  Use sturdy, safe candleholders.
• 9.1.3  Protect candle flames with glass chimneys or containers.
• 9.1.4  Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.
• 9.1.5  Never leave a burning candle unattended.  Avoid using candles in bedrooms and sleeping areas. Extinguish candles when you leave a room. Keep children and pets away from burning candles.
• 9.1.6  Be careful not to splatter wax when extinguishing a candle.
• 9.1.7  Never use a candle when medical oxygen is being used.
• 9.1.8  Always use a flashlight – not a candle – for emergency lighting.

9.2  Religious ceremonies

• 9.2.1  The use of candles for religious observances is not encouraged.
• 9.2.2  Handheld candles should not be passed from one person to another at any time.
• 9.2.3  The candles should be used by only a few designated individuals to lower the risk of fire.
• 9.2.4  Handheld candles should be put out before moving from the place of initial lighting. Once it is put out the candle should be placed in an approved non-combustible container.
• 9.2.5  Candles placed on tables, altars or shrines must be maintained under the supervision of an adult.

10.0  Matches and lighters

• 10.1.1  Keep matches and lighters up high, out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• 10.1.2  Teach young children to tell a grown-up if they find matches or lighters. Lighters that look like toys can confuse children. Do not buy or use them.

11.0  Heating

• 11.1.1  Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• 11.1.2  Supervise children when a fireplace, fire pit, or other space heater is being used. Use a sturdy, metal screen to prevent contact burns, which are even more common than flame burns.
• 11.1.3  All heaters need space. Keep things that can burn, such as paper, bedding or furniture, at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.
• 11.1.4  Use heating equipment that has the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• 11.1.5  Never use your oven for heating.
• 11.1.6  Install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment, according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
  • 11.1.6.1  Have a qualified professional install the equipment.
  • 11.1.6.2  Make sure all fuel-burning vented equipment is vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. CO is created when fuels burn incompletely. CO poisoning can cause illness and even death. Make sure the venting for exhaust is kept clear and unobstructed. This includes removal of snow and ice around the outlet to the outside.
• 11.1.7  Install and maintain carbon monoxide alarms to avoid risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• 11.1.8  Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified professional.

11.2  Portable electric space heaters

• 11.2.1  Turn heaters off when you go to bed or leave the room.
• 11.2.2  Use and purchase portable space heaters with an automatic shut off so if they’re tipped over they will shut off.
• 11.2.3  Place space heater on solid, flat surface.
• 11.2.4  Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord.
• 11.2.5  Inspect for cracked or damaged, broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using.

11.3  Fuel burning space heaters

• 11.3.1  Always use the proper fuel as specified by the manufacturer.
• 11.3.2  When refueling, allow the appliance to cool and refuel outside or in a well-ventilated area.
• 11.3.3  When using the heater, open a window to ensure proper ventilation.
• 11.3.4  In portable kerosene or other liquid-fueled space heaters always use the proper grade of the proper fuel.
• 11.3.5  All new unvented gas-fired space heaters have an oxygen depletion sensor that detects a reduced level of oxygen in the area where the heater is operating and shuts off the heater before a hazardous level of carbon monoxide accumulates. If you have an older heater without this feature, replace it.
• 11.3.6  If the pilot light of your gas heater goes out, allow 5 minutes or more for the gas to go away before trying again, do not allow gas to accumulate, and light the match before you turn on the gas to the pilot to avoid risk of flashback.
• 11.3.7  If you smell gas in your gas heater, do not attempt to light the appliance. Turn off all the controls and open doors and window. Call a gas service person.

11.4  Wood burning stoves

• 11.4.1  Install the stove, chimney connectors and chimneys following manufacturer’s instructions or have a professional do the installation.
• 11.4.2  Wood stoves should bear the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• 11.4.3  In wood stoves, burn only dry, seasoned wood. In pellet stoves, burn only dry, seasoned wood pellets.
• 11.4.4  Start the fire with newspaper or kindling, never with a flammable liquid, such as lighter fluid, kerosene or gasoline.
• 11.4.5  Keep the doors of your wood stove closed unless loading or stoking the live fire.
• 11.4.6 Allow ashes to cool before disposing. Dispose of ashes in a tightly covered metal container and keep the ash container at least 10 feet awayfrom the home and any other nearby buildings. Douse and saturate with water.
• 11.4.7  Chimneys and vents need to be cleaned and inspected at least once a year.

11.5  Fireplaces

• 11.5.1  Have a sturdy screen on a fireplace.
• 11.5.2  Burn only dry, seasoned wood. It is not only cleaner for the environment, it also creates less buildup in the chimney.
• 11.5.3  Use artificial logs according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Never burn more than one log at a time.
• 11.5.4  Use only newspaper and kindling wood or fire starters to start a fire. Never use flammable liquids, such as lighter fluid, kerosene or gasoline to start a fire.
• 11.5.5  Chimneys and vents need to be cleaned and inspected at least once a year.
• 11.5.6 Keep children and pets away from the outside vents.
• 11.5.7  Use chimineas, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits outdoors only and at least 10 feet away from the home or anything that can burn.

11.6  Central heating

• 11.6.1  Furnaces need to be cleaned and inspected at least once a year by a qualified professional.
• 11.6.2  Do not store things that can burn near the furnace and keep the furnace area clean and uncluttered.

12.0  Outdoor burning

• 12.1.1  Check with the local fire department or municipality for any restrictions before outdoor or open air burning. This includes campfires, brush fires, fire pits, chimeneas, and outdoor fireplaces. You may not be permitted to do outdoor burning in some municipalities and during some seasons of the year.
• 12.1.2  Closely supervise all outdoor fires.
• 12.1.3  Avoid burning on windy, dry days. When conditions are windy or dry, it is too easy for open burning to spread out of control.
• 12.1.4  Where outdoor burning is allowed, never use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids
• 12.1.5 Have a hose, bucket of water, or shovel and dirt and sand nearby when burning to extinguish the fire.

13.0  Stop, Drop, and Roll

• 13.1.1  If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop and roll. Stop immediately, drop to the ground, and cover face with hands. Roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out.
• 13.1.2  If you cannot stop, drop and roll, keep a fire-retardant blanket nearby to help you or others smother flames. Cover the person with a blanket to smother the fire. If you use a wheelchair, scooter or other device and are able to get to the floor, lock the device first to stay in place before getting on the floor to roll until the flames are out.
• 13.1.3  Use cool water to treat the burn immediately for 3 to 5 minutes. Cover with a clean, dry cloth. Get medical help right away.

14.0  Fire extinguishers

• 14.1.1  Portable fire extinguishers have limits in their capacity to put out fires. Call the fire department if there is a fire. As a general rule, firefighting should be left to the experts. Only use a fire extinguisher if you have been trained to do so. Practice how to use fire extinguishers before a fire occurs.  

15.0  Electrical

• 15.1  If you are at all unfamiliar with the operation of your electrical system, hire a qualified electrician.

15.2 Inside the home

• 15.2.1  Have your home electrical system inspected when buying, selling, or renovating a home.
• 15.2.2  Keep lamps, light fixtures, and light bulbs away from anything that can burn, including lamp shades, furniture, bedding, curtains, clothing, and flammable or combustible gases and liquids.
• 15.2.3  Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the lamp or fixture.
• 15.2.4  If a fuse blows or a circuit breaker trips often, find out why and correct the problem. Have a licensed electrician inspect and correct it.
• 15.2.5  Replace blown fuses with the correct amp rating. Never replace a fuse with a higher rated fuse. If the problem continues, call an electrician.
• 15.2.6  Major appliances (refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, etc.) should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Never use an extension cord.
• 15.2.7  Window air conditioners should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Many manufacturers of room air conditioners prohibit the use of extension cords. If manufacturer’s instructions allow extension cords, follow the instructions for the proper type.
• 15.2.8  Buy only appliances that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory.
• 15.2.9  Replace cracked, damaged and loose electrical cords.
• 15.2.10  Avoid putting cords against walls or furniture or running them under carpets or across doorways.
• 15.2.11 Extension cords are for temporary use only. Have a licensed electrician determine if additional circuits or outlets are needed.  
• 15.2.12  Replace outlets if plugs do not fit snugly or the outlet does not accept plugs with one blade larger than the other.
• 15.2.13  Cover outlets and switches with wall plates to prevent shocks.
• 15.2.14  If you have young children install tamper-resistant electrical outlets. Where replacement is not possible install new protective outlet covers, which do not allow a child to insert an object into the outlet.
• 15.2.15  Call a licensed electrician if you have
  • 15.2.15.1  recurring problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers.
  • 15.2.15.2  a tingling feeling when you touch an electrical appliance.
  • 15.2.15.3  discolored or warm wall outlets or switches.
  • 15.2.15.4  a burning smell or rubbery odor coming from an appliance.
  • 15.2.15.5  flickering lights.
  • 15.2.15.6  sparks from an outlet.
  • 15.2.15.7  cracked or broken outlets.
• 15.2.15  Arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) are a type of circuit breaker that shuts off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs. Have a qualified electrician install them in your home.
• 15.2.16  Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) reduce the risk of shock. GFCIs shut off electricity when it becomes a shock hazard. Make sure GFCI’s are installed in bathrooms, basements, garages, outdoors, at kitchen counters and other locations in the home where there are sinks or basins.
• 15.2.17  Test AFCIs and GFCIs once a month by pushing the test button to make sure they are working properly.

  15.3 Outside the home

• 15.3.1  Keep ladders away from overhead power lines, the lines into your home.
• 15.3.2  Never touch a power line. Assume that all power lines are live. Stay at a safe distance – you could be electrocuted.
• 15.3.3  Never touch a person who is in contact with a downed wire.
• 15.3.4  Report downed power lines to authorities.
• 15.3.5  Some power lines are underground. Call your local authority regarding digging.

16.0  Lightning

16.1 Indoor safety

• 16.1.1  During a lightning storm
  • 16.1.1.1 Stay off corded phones, computers, and other electronic equipment that put you in direct contact with electricity or plumbing.
  • 16.1.1.2 Avoid washing your hands, showering, bathing, doing laundry, or washing dishes.
  • 16.1.1.3   Stay away from windows and doors.

16.2  Outdoor safety

• 16.2.1  When lightning is present
  • 16.2.1.1   Seek shelter immediately in a building or a hard-topped vehicle.
  • 16.2.1.2 If you are in or on open water, go to land and seek shelter immediately
  • 16.2.1.3 If you can’t get to shelter and you feel your hair stand on end, indicating that lightning is about to strike, squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contact with the ground. This is a last resort when a building or hard-topped vehicle is not available.
• 16.2.2  If a person is struck by lightning, call 9-1-1 and get medical care immediately.  Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge; attend to them immediately.  Administer CPR if needed.

17.0  Medical Oxygen

• 17.1.1  Oxygen itself does not burn but a fire needs oxygen to start and to keep burning. When more oxygen is in the air, the fire will burn hotter and faster.    
• 17.1.2  If medical oxygen is used in the home, the amount of oxygen in the air, furniture, clothing, hair, and bedding goes up, making it easier for a fire to start and spread.   This means that there is a higher risk of both fires and burns.
• 17.1.3  Never smoke in a home where medical oxygen is used.
• 17.1.4  Post “no smoking” signs in and outside of the home to remind residents and guests not to smoke.
• 17.1.5  If medical oxygen or an oxygen tank is used in the home, the amount of oxygen in the air, furniture, clothing, hair, and bedding can increase, making it easier for a fire to start and spread.   This means that there is a higher risk of both fires and burns.
• 17.1.6  Never use a candle, match, lighter, or other open flame; a stove or other device fueled by gas, kerosene, wood, or coal; or a sparking toy when medical oxygen is in use.

18.0     Home fire sprinklers

• 18.1.1  Eight out of ten fire deaths in the U.S. occur in the home. If you have a fire in the home, the risk of dying is cut by about 80 percent with automatic fire sprinklers.
• 18.1.2  A sprinkler will control or put out a fire with a tiny fraction of the water that would be used by fire department hoses.
• 18.1.3  Sprinklers keep fires small. Because the sprinkler system reacts so quickly, it can dramatically reduce the heat, flames, and smoke produced in a fire, allowing people the time to escape safely.
• 18.1.4  Sprinklers activate independently. Only the sprinkler closest to the fire will activate, spraying water directly on the fire, not the rest of the house.
• 18.1.5  Accidental sprinkler discharges are extremely rare.
• 18.1.6  If you are building or remodeling your home, install a home fire sprinkler system.

18.2 Sprinkler installation

• 18.2.1 Have a qualified contractor install your home fire sprinkler system according to NFPA    codes and standards and local fire safety regulations.
• 18.2.2 Home fire sprinklers round out the work of smoke alarms. Sprinklers and smoke alarms together cut the risk of dying in a home fire 82 percent compared to having nothing.

18.3 Sprinkler maintenance

• 18.3.1 A simple visual inspection should be done routinely to ensure the water valve on the sprinkler is open.
• 18.3.2 Inspect the pipes and sprinklers occasionally to make sure nothing is blocking them.
• 18.3.3 Do a water flow test on the sprinkler system about once a year or have a fire sprinkler contractor do the test.
• 18.3.4  Keep sprinklers clear and free of objects that can interfere with their proper use.

For more information on home fire sprinklers, visit www.HomeFireSprinkler.org.

For home energy assistance, contact the National Energy Assistance Referral line at +1 866 674-6327.

The American Burn Association offers information on the care and prevention of burns at www.ameriburn.org.