- There were 1,451,500 fires in the United States in 2008, according to the National Fire Protection Association. This is the latest year for which NFPA has statistics. That year, a fire department responded to a fire every 22 seconds. More than 3,300 deaths and 16,700 injuries resulted from these fires.
- Turning your attention from a flame greatly increases the likelihood of a fire. For instance, leaving food and candles unattended are among the top reasons that home fires begin. Smoking too often results in fires; in particular, the CDC urges never to smoke in bed or leave smoldering ashes.
- Having the right equipment can help prevent fires and protect lives during the event of a fire. Smoke detectors should be in every home and building. Roughly four out of every 10 home fire deaths occur in homes that have no smoke alarms, notes the CDC. These devices should be checked regularly to ensure that they are in proper working order. Additionally, having a fire extinguisher on hand can help in the event that a fire erupts. Extinguishers also need to be inspected regularly.
- As important as having life safety equipment is having a fire safety plan to keep yourself and your family safe from harm in the event of a fire. Your life safety plan should include at least two routes for each family member to safely escape from the house during a fire. The CDC recommends practicing the plan every six months.
- Some basic tips can help ensure life safety during a fire. Buy and install a smoke alarm. Buy an extinguisher and keep it handy. Don't overload electrical circuits. Use appliances, especially portable heaters, in accordance to manufacturers' instructions to avoid overheating. And, lastly, use common sense by keeping matches and lighters away from children and not turning your attention away from a flame.