Fire Safety

Never leave candles or other open flames burning unattended.

Douse cigarette and cigar butts with water before dumping them in the trash. By following safety tips at home like this and having home security, you can help protect your investments and add value to your home.

Don't leave hot irons, or burning stovetops and outdoor grills unattended while in use. Double-check that you've turned them off after use. Having added protection like carbon monoxide detectors or smoke and heat sensors can also help you protect your home and loved ones from fire.

Regularly clear and dispose of dry or dead vegetation in your yard or areas near your home. Following a home safety tip such as this one more frequently during hot, dry months can also help you thoroughly protect you home from fire.

Make sure the lid stays on your trash can, and store firewood and other combustibles away from your home.

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home. For the best detection and notification protection, install both ionization and photoelectric-type smoke alarms. Put them inside or near every bedroom. Test them monthly to make sure they work and replace the batteries once a year. Safeguarding your home with heat and smoke sensors can give your home an added layer of protection.

Don't have deadbolts that lock with an inside key. You need to get out fast if a fire starts. A missing key could trap you inside. Also, don't nail windows shut. Make sure they open easily.

Make a fire escape plan for your family. Find two exits out of every room. Pick a meeting place outside. Practice makes perfect - hold a family fire drill at least twice each year. Making sure your entire family is aware of your fire escape plan and knows how to properly operate your home security system is imperative to having the best home security possible.

Be sure your street address is visibly posted so that firefighters can identify your home in the event of an emergency.