How to Prepare for a House Fire

Last Updated: August 26, 2021

In 2010 $6,646,900,000 of damage was caused as a result of dwelling fires. A fire can destroy a persons life but it doesn't have to. This article will give you some things to think about, to prepare for that next neighborhood fire.

Steps

1
Purchase a house with fire sprinklers installed. A sprinkler only applies water to the area threatened by fire.
2
Make copies of important documents and pictures and keep a copy of them at a friends or relatives house. Put the originals in a fire resistant safe.

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3
Make an escape plan to evacuate your home in case of a fire or other emergency. If your room is on the second floor, consider purchasing a fire ladder to aid in escape.
4
Keep areas around the furnace, water heater, outlets, and other potentially hazardous areas clear of combustible materials.
5
Purchase and install smoke detectors or test the ones you have to ensure they are in working order.
6
Purchase fire extinguishers for your home and consider getting a Class k extinguisher for your kitchen in case of grease fires.
7
Practice escaping from your house as if it were on fire by staying low and following your escape plan.
8
Ensure exits such as doors and windows aren't obstructed and are in working order if you do not choose to repair them.
9
Have your chimney inspected and swept regularly. This will prevent build up of residue which causes chimney fires.
10
Keep the main gas shut off and electric meter visible and accessible to aid the fire department in the extinguishing of the fire.
11
Call your local fire department and ask about a home fire inspection. they'll most likely be willing and will do it for free. while your calling you can ask about any fire prevention functions.
12
Get involved with your fire department. It may be one of the best ways to prepare. Try volunteering for them, if they need help or if they have an auxiliary you can join to help at functions.

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Community Q&A

Question

How do I stop a house from becoming damaged in a house fire?

Community Answer

Install your drywall VERTICALLY - then the drywall can actually contain a fire to its starting area for its 45-minute rating. Otherwise, don't be a hoarder and minimize overall clutter; just because there's a room doesn't mean it has to be filled. Also, don't leave candles burning unattended and only plug things in as needed rather than leaving them plugged in. Finally, install sprinklers.
Question

What should I do if I'm caring for an infant?

Community Answer

Make sure that the smoke detectors in the house are up to date, and be sure you can access the room where the infant sleeps easily in case of a fire during the night. If there is a fire, get to the baby as quickly as possible and get it out of the house. They're very vulnerable to smoke inhalation due to their developing lungs.

Warnings

Some activities listed here such as the use of ladders may be dangerous. Use caution when performing these activities.

Thanks!
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