10/08/2026
October is Fire Prevention Month, serving as a good reminder that fire safety is not something to put off until an emergency happens. In the United States, one home structure fire is reported every 96 seconds, serving as a sobering reminder of the importance of fire safety.
So, that said, our team wanted to share a few practical tips worth reviewing this season:
âš« Know the leading causes - Cooking and heating are the two leading causes of home fires in the United States. Never leave cooking unattended, keep flammable materials at least three feet from heat sources, and check electrical cords regularly for damage or fraying.
âš« Check your smoke alarms - Test them monthly, replace batteries annually, and fully replace any alarm that is 10 or more years old.
âš« Have an escape plan and practice it - Plan two ways to escape from every room, make sure all windows and doors open easily, and designate an outdoor meeting place.
âš« Know how to use a fire extinguisher - Remember the acronym PASS: Pull the pin, Aim low at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle slowly, and Sweep the nozzle side to side. If you are not confident, get out and call 911.
âš« Build safer daily habits - Never leave portable heaters or fireplaces unattended, keep matches and lighters locked away from children, avoid overloading outlets, and turn off all appliances before leaving the house or going to bed.
Fire prevention is a shared responsibility, and a little preparation goes a long way. If you have further questions about fire safety, we encourage you to reach out to your local fire station.
And if you have any insurance questions or needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to help you.
