{"id":356760,"date":"2025-11-07T11:42:33","date_gmt":"2025-11-07T16:42:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/?p=356760"},"modified":"2025-11-07T11:42:33","modified_gmt":"2025-11-07T16:42:33","slug":"how-families-can-prevent-and-plan-for-fires-during-covid-19","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/insurance\/homeowners\/how-families-can-prevent-and-plan-for-fires-during-covid-19\/","title":{"rendered":"How Families Can Prevent and Plan For Fires During Covid-19"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>November is Child Safety and Protection Month, and there\u2019s no better time to think about how you can protect your family in the case of a fire in your home. Current national data show that U.S. fire departments respond to an annual average of about 343,100 home structure fires, causing roughly 2,610 civilian deaths, 11,090 injuries, and $9.0 billion in direct property damage each year. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and injuries, while smoking materials are the leading cause of home fire deaths (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\">NFPA<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many households still underprepare for home fires, even as day-to-day routines have changed. National estimates indicate residential fire counts dipped in 2020 and returned to near pre\u2011pandemic levels by 2021\u20132022, with roughly the mid\u2011300,000s incidents and the upper\u20112,000s civilian deaths in 2022 (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.usfa.fema.gov\">U.S. Fire Administration<\/a>). Remote and hybrid work has stabilized at about 28\u201330% of paid workdays, which increases time spent around top household hazards like cooking, electrical equipment, and portable heating (<a href=\"https:\/\/wfhresearch.com\">WFH Research<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With solid prevention, detection, and planning, your family can reduce risk and be ready to respond. Preparation also simplifies recovery and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/insurance\/homeowners\/best\/\">home insurance<\/a> claim that may follow. Since 2020, several states have strengthened post\u2011disaster claims protections and emphasized mitigation (for example, California\u2019s consumer protections and wildfire-mitigation discounts and Colorado\u2019s post\u2011wildfire claims reforms), and carriers have expanded digital claims tools\u2014though catastrophe events can still extend timelines (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200SB872\">California SB 872<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/leg.colorado.gov\/bills\/hb22-1111\">Colorado HB22\u20111111<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/content.naic.org\">NAIC<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jdpower.com\/business\/press-releases\/2024-us-property-claims-satisfaction-study\">J.D. Power<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In This Article: <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul><li><a href=\"#common\">Common Fire Safety Hazards and How to Prevent Them<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#what\">What Are The Best Ways To Plan For a Fire?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#picking\">Picking Up The Pieces After a Fire<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#staying\">Staying One Step Ahead<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#experts\">Ask the Experts<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"common\">Common Fire Safety Hazards and How to Prevent Them<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your first step in becoming fire-savvy is to look around your house with a keen eye, identifying items and situations that could cause a fire under the wrong conditions. Here are evidence\u2011based hazards and how to lower the risk, including newer concerns like lithium\u2011ion batteries in devices and micromobility products (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cpsc.gov\/Newsroom\/News-Releases\/2023\/CPSC-Warns-of-Deadly-Fires-from-Micromobility-Device-Batteries\">CPSC<\/a>):<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cooking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>During everyday routines and the holidays, cooking remains <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">the number one cause<\/a> of home fires and home fire injuries. Cooking was involved in about 49% of reported home fires in recent analyses, with unattended cooking the leading factor. Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling; use a timer when simmering or baking; and keep combustibles (oven mitts, towels, packaging) away from the stovetop. If a small pan fire occurs, turn off the burner and slide a lid over the pan\u2014never use water on a grease fire (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\">NFPA cooking safety<\/a>). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Smoking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you smoke cigarettes, cigars or a pipe, be extra cautious. Cigarettes and other smoking materials start an estimated 16,300 reported home structure fires per year, causing about 660 deaths and roughly 1,030 injuries on average; they account for a small share of fires but a disproportionately large share of home fire deaths. Smoke outdoors when possible, keep smoking materials away from upholstered furniture and bedding, and never smoke where medical oxygen is used (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\/News-and-Research\/Data-research-and-tools\/US-Fire-Problem\/Smoking-Materials\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">NFPA<\/a>). For e\u2011cigarettes and rechargeable devices, use only the manufacturer\u2019s charger and never charge unattended; lithium\u2011ion battery failures can ignite quickly (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cpsc.gov\/Safety-Education\/Safety-Guides\/Batteries\/Lithium-Ion-Battery-Safety\">CPSC lithium\u2011ion battery safety<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Electrical Hazards<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Electrical distribution and lighting equipment are involved in an estimated 32,000 home structure fires annually, resulting in about 430 civilian deaths and $1.3 billion in direct property damage. Have a qualified electrician inspect older systems; avoid overloading outlets; and do not daisy\u2011chain power strips. Install and test GFCIs where required and consider AFCI protection to reduce arc\u2011fault fire risk. Replace damaged cords and never run cords under rugs. With more devices and chargers at home, route cables to prevent damage, use listed power strips only as directed, and keep equipment ventilated (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\">NFPA<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.esfi.org\">ESFI home office checklist<\/a>). For e\u2011bikes\/e\u2011scooters and other lithium\u2011ion products, charge on a hard, nonflammable surface, away from exits, and stop using any battery that is hot, swollen, leaking, or smells odd (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cpsc.gov\/Safety-Education\/Safety-Education-Centers\/Micromobility-Products\">CPSC micromobility guidance<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Space Heaters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A portable space heater can take the chill off a cold day, but improper use can turn deadly. Choose a heater listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (e.g., UL), place it on a solid, level surface at least 3 feet from anything that can burn, and plug it directly into a wall receptacle\u2014never into a power strip or extension cord. Look for tip\u2011over and overheat shutoff features, and turn heaters off when you leave the room or go to sleep (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cpsc.gov\/Safety-Education\/Safety-Education-Centers\/Holiday-Safety\">CPSC<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\">NFPA heating<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dryer Fires<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Clothes dryer fires can escalate quickly because they often begin out of sight. U.S. analyses show that failure to clean is a leading factor in residential dryer fires. Empty the lint filter before every load, clean dryer ducts regularly (and have them serviced if airflow is weak), and avoid running the dryer when you\u2019re away or asleep (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.usfa.fema.gov\">U.S. Fire Administration \u2013 Topical Fire Report Series<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Candles and open flames<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Candles and fireplaces add ambiance\u2014and risk. Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn, use sturdy holders on heat\u2011resistant surfaces, and blow out candles when you leave the room or before sleeping. Use a fireplace screen; never burn wrapping paper; and keep stockings\/garlands away from flames. During power outages, use flashlights, not candles (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\">NFPA winter holiday safety<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cpsc.gov\/Safety-Education\/Safety-Education-Centers\/Holiday-Safety\">CPSC holiday safety<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what\">What Are The Best Ways To Plan For a Fire?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite your best efforts, there is no way to completely fire-proof your home. Because of that, you want to have solid detection and fire control mechanisms in place to protect yourself and your family. Home fires consistently account for about three\u2011quarters of civilian structure fire deaths, so strong detection and a rehearsed escape plan are critical (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.iii.org\/fact-statistic\/facts-statistics-home-fires\">Insurance Information Institute<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Smoke detectors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your first line of defense is to have adequate smoke alarms in your house: one on each floor, in every bedroom, and additional alarms outside of bedrooms. Interconnect alarms so when one sounds, they all sound. Test monthly and keep batteries fresh\u2014or consider sealed 10\u2011year battery models. If you have fuel\u2011burning appliances or an attached garage, install carbon monoxide (CO) alarms as well (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\">NFPA smoke alarms<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Smoke alarms have a life of roughly ten years; check the manufacture date on the back and replace units that are 10 years old or older. To reduce nuisance alarms near kitchens while maintaining protection, consider modern, nuisance\u2011resistant, multi\u2011criteria alarms that meet UL 268 7th Edition requirements (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ulsolutions.com\/insights\/ul-268-7th-edition-smoke-detectors\">UL 268 7th Edition<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep your smoke alarms clean \u2014 make sure they\u2019re free of cobwebs and dust to avoid accidental alarms. Test them regularly, so that you and your children both know what they sound like, and know that they\u2019re working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Property documentation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking a home inventory can set you up well for the after-fire process. Make sure to go through every room in your home taking video shots of all the furniture and belongings in that room. Some home insurance companies offer an online option to list your property through your account on their site. The key is to have a listing of your valuables in a remote location that you can access easily after a fire. You will present this to the adjuster when they are determining the value of property that has been destroyed. Keep receipts and a log of expenses\u2014especially for temporary housing and essentials\u2014since catastrophe claims can face longer cycle times even with digital tools (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.jdpower.com\/business\/press-releases\/2024-us-property-claims-satisfaction-study\">J.D. Power<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fire extinguishers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Small, easy-to-use fire extinguishers are available from big box stores and online retailers. You should have one on each floor of your house, positioned up off the floor and anchored to a stable wall. Kitchens and laundry rooms are both good spots for an extinguisher, although you\u2019ll want to keep them away from heat sources such as the stove.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you purchase a fire extinguisher, read the directions so you know how to use it. In the event of a fire, you won\u2019t have time to puzzle it out \u2014 a kitchen fire can spread in seconds, and you have a limited window of opportunity to use it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.osha.gov\/SLTC\/etools\/evacuation\/portable_use.html#:~:text=Discharge%20the%20extinguisher%20within%20its,the%20fire%20is%20not%20out.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Occupational Safety and Health Organization<\/a> recommends that when teaching your family to use an extinguisher, you remember the P.A.S.S. technique:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>PULL \u2026 the pin, which breaks the tamper seal.<\/li><li>AIM \u2026 try to point the nozzle at the base of the fire, not the flames themselves.<\/li><li>SQUEEZE \u2026 the handle, which releases the extinguishing agent.<\/li><li>SWEEP \u2026 from side to side near the fire\u2019s base until it is out. Then watch the area carefully to ensure that it doesn\u2019t restart.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>One caveat: if you aren\u2019t sure you can put out the fire yourself, or if it keeps reigniting, get out of the house immediately. While you\u2019re trying to extinguish the fire, have someone else call 9-1-1; even if you think you\u2019ve controlled the fire, it\u2019s a good idea to have a professional firefighter check the area. For incidents involving lithium\u2011ion batteries (e\u2011mobility devices, power tools), note that specialized extinguishers are now evaluated for Li\u2011ion battery fires; consider one where appropriate, and always prioritize evacuation for larger battery events (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ul.com\">UL Solutions<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fire evacuation plan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Create your fire evacuation plan before you need it, not when the fire is raging. Here are some tips to help you create a solid plan that could save your life:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>If you have a floor plan of your house, use it while making your plan. If not, it may help you to go from room to room while assessing possible escape routes. The NFPA offers an easily-downloaded <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\/\/-\/media\/Files\/FPW\/Educate\/2019\/FPW19Grid.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">fire escape planning grid<\/a> that can help you create your plan.<\/li><li>Consider two different exits from each room. This will include the door, but also look at windows as possible exits. Make sure the windows are easily opened \u2014 if they\u2019re painted shut or stuck, remedy the situation as soon as possible.<\/li><li>If necessary, purchase an easily-stored fire ladder that can be attached to a window to allow for exit from a second-floor room.<\/li><li>Have regular fire drills with your family, especially if you have children, elderly relatives, or persons with disabilities living with you. Practice at least twice a year, including after bedtime, and assign an adult to assist children who may sleep through alarms. Teach \u201cget low and go,\u201d and make \u201cclose before you doze\u201d part of your routine to slow smoke and heat spread (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthychildren.org\">AAP<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/closeyourdoor.org\">UL FSRI<\/a>).<\/li><li>If you have pets, determine whose responsibility it will be to locate and evacuate them.<\/li><li>Plan a spot away from the house where everyone should meet in the event of a fire. Avoid any spot where fire trucks might need to be, or where you might be in the way of firefighters. The next door neighbor\u2019s front yard might be a good option, or under a tree that\u2019s far from the house.<\/li><li>Assign a \u201cfire buddy\u201d to each family member. That way, no one is inadvertently left behind in a fire. Work together as a family to make sure that everyone knows what to do, even the youngest children.&nbsp;<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/RVPR-1770_Reviews_KidsFireHazard-1-pdf-683x1024.jpg\" height=\"1024\" width=\"683\"  alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-356794\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/RVPR-1770_Reviews_KidsFireHazard1024_1.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Download your own copy of our Fire Safety worksheet here!<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Picking-Up-The-Pieces-After-a-Fire\">Picking Up The Pieces After a Fire<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If, despite all your efforts, you are the victim of a home fire, you may think: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/insurance\/homeowners\/was-your-home-damaged-by-fire-heres-what-to-do-next\/\"><em>what do I do now? <\/em><\/a>Your first concern will be for the health and safety of your family and pets.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As soon as you possibly can, however, you\u2019ll want to contact your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/insurance\/homeowners\/buyers-guide\/\">home insurance<\/a> agent \u2014 preferably on the same day as the fire. Your agent will assign an adjustor to visit your property and assess the damage. Don\u2019t make any repairs until they have done so, unless you need to take steps to protect your home from further damage, such as tarping over a hole in the roof. After large declared disasters, some states require advance payments for certain benefits and allow simplified personal property inventories for total losses\u2014ask your insurer about any applicable protections (<a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200SB872\">California SB 872<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/leg.colorado.gov\/bills\/hb22-1111\">Colorado HB22\u20111111<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While waiting for the adjuster, collect as much information as you can about your home and its contents. If you can safely walk through the house, do so, noting what is destroyed and what can be salvaged. This is a good time to access your previously-made documentation of your property. If you don\u2019t have any documentation, work from memory to create an overview of your belongings to pass on to the adjuster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When it\u2019s time to make repairs, get written bids from licensed contractors, with as much detail as possible. Don\u2019t jump on the lowest bid for a repair or pay cash upfront to secure the bid price. Go for permanent repairs rather than quick fixes, and keep all receipts in a file to present to the adjuster. Make copies of all paperwork, whether from contractors, your insurer, inspectors or other vendors, and keep them all together if needed for your claim. Be aware that the homeowners market has faced higher catastrophe losses and rebuilding-cost inflation since 2020, which can affect coverage needs and timelines; review extended replacement cost, ordinance or law, and additional living expense provisions carefully (<a href=\"https:\/\/content.naic.org\">NAIC<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iii.org\/issue-update\/homeowners-insurance-in-california\">III: California market overview<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"experts\">Ask the Experts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"expert-swiper-container swiper-container\">\n    <div class=\"swiper-wrapper\">\n        <div class=\"expert-review swiper-slide\">\n            <div class=\"expert-review-bio\">\n                <div class=\"expert-review-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"b-ask-the-experts__image lazyloaded\"\n                        data-src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-10-at-2.49.47-PM-150x150.png\"\n                        src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-10-at-2.49.47-PM-150x150.png\"\n                        alt=\"Image of Chuck Guice\">\n                <\/div>\n                <div class=\"expert-review-info\">\n                    <h3>Chuck Guice<\/h3>\n                    <h4>Chuck has been active with the Arlington County Fire Department as a Firefighter for over\n                        21\n                        years, and has served as a Deputy Fire Marshal and Bomb Technician with the Arlington County\n                        Fire Department for the past 6 years.\n                    <\/h4>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <p>\n                <ol>\n                    <li><strong> What are some of the most important steps you\u2019ve taken with your family to make you home safer\n                        from fires?<\/strong> <br>\n                        One of the most important steps that I have taken with my family is creating a\n                        pre-plan if we have a fire emergency in our home. After alerting everyone in the house that\n                        there is a fire, we leave as quickly as we can and head to our family meeting place. We then\n                        account for everyone, call for help, and let the fire department units know what is on fire and\n                        the fire\u2019s rough location in the home.<\/li>\n                    <li><strong>What advice would you give to parents who are talking with their children about fire safety?<\/strong><br>\n                        This is very age dependent. With younger children (ages 4-8 ) it&#8217;s important to discuss what the\n                        child should do if they find matches or lighters, not to touch them, and how they should go find\n                        an adult and tell them what they found. For kids ages 8-12, talk with them about the dangers of\n                        playing with matches and lighters. This age is more likely to pick up those matches or lighter\n                        to see what it does. If you take the time to show them what happens when that match or lighter\n                        is lit, they will be less curious about how it works. Remind them that fire safety is something\n                        that they practice everywhere they go.<\/li>\n                    <li><strong> What is a commonly overlooked step towards fire safety\/prevention that you\u2019d recommend families\n                        look into as soon as possible?<\/strong>\n                        <br>\n                        One of the most overlooked household items that families don\u2019t\n                        realize are fire hazards are extension cords. We all are guilty of having that one outlet that\n                        just isn\u2019t enough room for all our devices, and we use an extension cord as a quick fix. We may\n                        also still be using that cord that we bought 10 years ago; running it under a rug or carpet to\n                        reach that lamp on the table next to the chair. You may not see it, but extension cords break\n                        down over time and cause fires. Extension cords are a temporary use item. When not in use it\n                        should be unplugged from the receptacle. <\/li>\n                    <li><strong> What times of the year do you see the most house fires, and what would you recommend that\n                        families be on the lookout for?<\/strong> <br>One of the most common times of year we see a rise in house\n                        fires are the winter months. A couple things that I think of off hand are Christmas trees and\n                        fireplace ashes. Dried out Christmas trees can easily catch fire and this can spread very\n                        rapidly through a space. Improperly disposing of fireplace ashes before they have had enough\n                        time to cool can also create a fire hazard. If you clean out your hot ashes from the fireplace\n                        and put them outside next to the house or dump them in the trash can, they can catch again and\n                        burn your trash can or house hours later.<\/li>\n                <\/ol>\n\n            <\/p>\n            <br>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"expert-review swiper-slide\">\n            <div class=\"expert-review-bio\">\n                <div class=\"expert-review-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"b-ask-the-experts__image lazyloaded\"\n                        data-src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-10-at-2.50.04-PM-150x150.png\"\n                        src=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/Screen-Shot-2020-11-10-at-2.50.04-PM-150x150.png\"\n                        alt=\"Image of Michael J DiRienzo\">\n                <\/div>\n                <div class=\"expert-review-info\">\n                    <h3>Michael J DiRienzo<\/h3>\n                    <h4>Over 28 years of service as a firefighter\/paramedic. Graduate of Loyola School of Medicine\n                        with a certification as a Paramedic, Advanced Life Support, Bachelor\u2019s degree from Benedictine\n                        University, Lisle, Illinois. Attended University of Illinois Fire Service Institute. Fire\n                        service Instructor II, Instructor for CPR, First Aid and AED.\n                    <\/h4>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <p>\n                <ol>\n                    <li><strong> What are some of the most important steps you\u2019ve taken with your family to make you home safer\n                        from fires?<\/strong><br>Safety starts in the home, and my family is no exception; emergencies can\n                        and do happen to everyone. There are two steps to fire safety in the home 1)\n                        prevention of emergencies and 2) response in the event of an emergency.\n                        I would help make my own home safe from fire emergencies by taking\n                        preventive measures such as keeping appliances and utilities in good repair, (furnace, water\n                        heater, electrical system) and inspected annually by professionals. It\u2019s always important to\n                        check exhaust pipes, outlets and vents, clean and repair them immediately if needed.\n                        Additionally, electrical cords should be checked for frayed wires, and should be rated for the\n                        electrical load they are being used for. You should also have working fire extinguishers\n                        available and know how to use them.\n                        The family and residents should be aware of procedures in the event of an\n                        emergency. Plan and practice EDITH (Exit Drills in the Home). Have a meeting place outside so\n                        everyone can be accounted for. Practice calling 911 (but don\u2019t actually make the call during\n                        practice!). And KNOW YOUR ADDRESS! You should post your address somewhere in a conspicuous place\n                        (refrigerator, bulletin board, etc.) so that visitors, and even young people in the house know\n                        the proper address to report to the 911 operator. Calls from cell phones may not give the\n                        address, so it is vital to know when calling Fire, EMS or Police where the response is needed.\n                    <\/li>\n                    <li><strong>What advice would you give to parents who are talking with their children about fire safety?<\/strong><br>\n                        Advice I would give to parents when discussing these issues with children\n                        would be to not panic them: you want them to be aware, not afraid! A\n                        simple, direct and open discussion would go a long way in keeping the\n                        family engaged. Have them participate in the planning and practice (put\n                        them \u201cin charge\u201d of certain aspects of the plans).\n                    <\/li>\n                    <li><strong>What is a commonly overlooked step towards fire safety\/prevention that you\u2019d recommend families\n                        look into as soon as possible?<\/strong>\n                        <br>\n                        The most overlooked aspect of fire safety and prevention in the home would\n                        have to be the complacency we all fall into: It becomes very easy to assume all is well when the\n                        furnace works or the extension cord has always been okay, so it\u2019s good enough for now.\n                        Inspections, regular cleanings and repairs cannot be emphasized enough for their value in\n                        keeping your home safe. In addition, the regular review and practice of emergency procedures is\n                        frequently overlooked.\n                    <\/li>\n                    <li><strong>What times of the year do you see the most house fires, and what would you recommend that\n                        families be on the lookout for?<\/strong> <br>Cool weather brings about the most exposure to fire danger.\n                        After all, we are inviting fire into our homes with the use of fireplaces, furnaces and space\n                        heaters. These things, properly maintained and used according to their purpose are perfectly\n                        safe. However, it\u2019s when we do not maintain them in good repair, or use them in a method not\n                        according to their intended use that they become a problem. Make sure to read and abide by\n                        manufactures recommendations for proper use and placement of these items. During the holidays,\n                        inspect and test lighting before you put it up. Make sure combustible materials are not near\n                        lights, space heaters or other heat sources.\n                    <\/li>\n                <\/ol>\n\n            <\/p>\n            <br>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expert-swiper-arrows\">\n    <!-- Add Arrows -->\n    <div>\n        <div class=\"expert-swiper-button-prev\"><\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <!-- Add Pagination -->\n    <div class=\"expert-swiper-pagination\"><\/div>\n    <div>\n        <div class=\"expert-swiper-button-next\"><\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<style>\n    .expert-swiper-container {\n        overflow: hidden;\n        height: fit-content;\n        margin: 20px 0;\n        padding: 40px 40px;\n        border-top: 2px solid #EEAC2D;\n        border-bottom: 2px solid #EEAC2D;\n    }\n\n    @media only screen and (max-width: 425px) {\n        .expert-swiper-container {\n            padding: 40px 10px;\n        }\n    }\n\n    .expert-review-bio {\n        display: flex;\n        flex-wrap: wrap;\n        justify-content: center;\n    }\n\n    .expert-review-image{\n        display: flex;\n        align-items: center;\n    }\n\n    .expert-review-info {\n        display: flex;\n        flex-direction: column;\n        flex: 1 1 0;\n        margin: 0 20px;\n    }\n    .expert-review-info h3{\n        margin: 0 5px !important;\n    }\n\n    .expert-review-info h4{\n        margin: 5px !important;\n        font-size:16px !important;\n    }\n\n    .expert-swiper-pagination {\n        display: flex;\n        justify-content: center;\n    }\n\n    .expert-swiper-pagination .swiper-pagination-bullet {\n        width: 12px;\n        height: 12px;\n        margin: 2px;\n        text-align: center;\n        line-height: 20px;\n        font-size: 12px;\n        color: #000;\n        opacity: 1;\n        background: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.2);\n    }\n\n    .expert-swiper-pagination .swiper-pagination-bullet-active {\n        color: #fff;\n        background: #034368;\n    }\n\n    .expert-swiper-arrows {\n        display: flex;\n        position: relative;\n        justify-content: center;\n        align-items: center;\n    }\n\n    .expert-swiper-button-next,\n    .expert-swiper-button-prev {\n        display: flex;\n        position: relative;\n        width: 40px;\n        height: 40px;\n        border-radius: 50%;\n        background-color: #034366;\n        font-family: swiper-icons;\n        text-transform: none !important;\n        letter-spacing: 0;\n        font-variant: normal;\n        align-items: center;\n        justify-content: center;\n        margin: 0 10px;\n    }\n\n    .expert-swiper-button-next:after {\n        content: \"next\";\n    }\n\n    .expert-swiper-button-prev:after {\n        content: \"prev\";\n    }\n\n    .expert-swiper-button-next:after,\n    .expert-swiper-button-prev:after {\n        color: white;\n        font-size: 17px;\n        font-weight: 600;\n    }\n<\/style>\n<script>\n    document.addEventListener('swiperLoaded', () => {\n        var expertSwiper = new Swiper('.expert-swiper-container', {\n            navigation: {\n                nextEl: '.expert-swiper-button-next',\n                prevEl: '.expert-swiper-button-prev',\n            },\n            pagination: {\n                el: '.expert-swiper-pagination',\n            },\n            autoHeight: true, \/\/enable auto height\n            autoplay: {\n                delay: 6500,\n                disableOnInteraction: true,\n            },\n            spaceBetween: 80,\n        });\n    });\n<\/script>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"staying\">Staying One Step Ahead<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As we get closer to the holidays, there will be additional challenges in maintaining a fire-ready home, with flammable decorations and increased cooking added to the mix. Keep trees and decorations at least 3 feet from heat sources, water live trees daily, use only listed lights and outdoor\u2011rated cords outside with GFCI protection, turn decorations off before bed or when leaving, and prefer flameless candles near d\u00e9cor (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nfpa.org\">NFPA<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.esfi.org\/holiday-safety\">ESFI<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cpsc.gov\/Safety-Education\/Safety-Education-Centers\/Holiday-Safety\">CPSC<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ready.gov\">Ready.gov<\/a>). For new battery\u2011powered gifts and devices, charge on hard, nonflammable surfaces, use only the manufacturer\u2019s charger, and never charge unattended (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cpsc.gov\/Safety-Education\/Safety-Guides\/Batteries\/Lithium-Ion-Battery-Safety\">CPSC<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All of this makes it even more important to remain vigilant and take precautions to make our homes as fire-resistant as possible, and to educate our families and ourselves in the best tactics to take before, during, and after a fire. Build kids\u2019 skills with engaging, age\u2011appropriate tools like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sparky.org\">NFPA\u2019s Sparky<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ready.gov\/kids\">Ready.gov\/Kids<\/a>, practice your escape plan twice a year (including one after bedtime), and make \u201cclose before you doze\u201d part of your nightly routine (<a href=\"https:\/\/closeyourdoor.org\">UL FSRI<\/a>). By taking advantage of these evidence\u2011based suggestions, you\u2019ll have a detailed plan to stay one step ahead of fire hazards during the holidays and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Featured image by netrun78 \/ Getty Images.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By taking advantage of our suggestions, you\u2019ll find it\u2019s easy to have a detailed plan to stay one step ahead of fire hazards during the pandemic and beyond.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":345,"featured_media":356778,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[1268],"tags":[21910],"post_author":[14193],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v20.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How Families Can Prevent and Plan For Fires During Covid-19 - Reviews.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"By taking advantage of our suggestions, you\u2019ll find it\u2019s easy to have a detailed plan to stay one step ahead of fire hazards during the pandemic and beyond.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/insurance\/homeowners\/how-families-can-prevent-and-plan-for-fires-during-covid-19\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How Families Can Prevent and Plan For Fires During Covid-19 - 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