Spring Cleaning for Fire Safety

Prevent clothes dryer fires: Clean lint filters every time you use the dryer. Clean your dryer vent ductwork every year.

Prevent garage fires: Don’t stack newspapers or recyclables next to heat sources.  Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.  Inspect Lithium Ion batteries for heat or signs of damage.

Prevent electrical fires: Discard any electrical cords that are frayed or broken.  Inspect your outlets for damage and verify that they don’t feel warm when you touch them.  (If they are warm, call your landlord or an electrician)

Exits: Clear path to all exits, including windows.  Remember, in less than 30 seconds a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire.  Often times the best exit is the closest exit.  Remember to close the door or window, if you can, as you exit to limit air flow that will feed the fire.