Common Sense Fire Safety
Eileen Church
This will come as no great surprise, but did you know that the
majority of house fires are the result of cooking? In fact,
studies show that cooking results in approximately 400,000
fires every year in single family homes and multiple family
dwellings. Add to that the number of fires that go unreported
and the total is more like 3.5 million residential fires.
Here are some tips from the Orange County (Calif) Fire
Authority to help prevent most of these fires:
*Never leave cooking unattended - This is probably the most
common cause of kitchen fires. This includes all appliances
including toaster ovens, coffee pots and other small
appliances. They can overheat and cause a fire if left alone.
Be sure to unplug them when not in use.
*Wear close-fitting clothes while cooking - loose, long sleeves
can catch fire when dangling near hot burners. Wear close
fitting sleeves and avoid storing things over the stove and
having to reach over hot burners to retrieve items.
*Avoid overloading outlets - plugging too many appliances into
an outlet could result in an electrical fire. Also be aware of
cracked or frayed cords.
*Heat oil slowly - Fires can start easily if the setting is too
high and the pan is unattended.
*Smother a grease fire - don't use water on a cooking fire as
this will spread the fire and make the it worse. Slide a lid or
other non combustible item over the fire and remove the heat
source. With oven fires, close the door and turn off the oven.
*Do not allow children to play around the range and other
appliances.
*Don't hesitate to call 911.
These are just some of the common-sense reminders that can help
to prevent a fire and send your dream home up in flames. Or,
worse, cause severe injury or death. A small amount of caution
can make a world of difference. Remember what your mother said:
don't play with fire!
About The Author: Eileen Church operates http://www.firebx.com
which is a site devoted to fire, fire safety, fire fighting
opportunities and other things related to fire. Please visit
http://www.firebx.com
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