Check all electrical outlets and cords. Outlets and extension cords should not be overloaded. Frayed cords should be thrown away, and no cords should be under carpets. Use extension cords only for temporary needs.   Check that all garbage, newspapers, old gift wrap, and oily rags are cleaned up properly. Old papers should be thrown away or recycled. Oily rags should be disposed of in approved safety containers.     Check that all space heaters are set up safely. Keep them away from walls and flammable curtains, bedding, furniture and clothing. All flammable items should be kept away from radiators and any type of portable heater. In the basement or utility room, keep dryers free of lint and keep stored items away from furnaces and water heaters.   Check that flammable liquids are stored correctly. Flammable liguids should be kept in sealed, air-tight, approved containers and kept in a basement, garage or storage shed away from any heat sources.   Check that all open flames are well guarded. Fireplaces should have fire screens, and candles should be on candleholders away from flammable furniture, curtains, clothing, bedding and papers. Make sure these open flames are never burning when people leave the room or go to bed. Outside the house, make sure that barbeque grills are positioned away from the building before use.     Check that you have at least one fire extinguisher in the home. There should be one in the kitchen, the basement and the garage. Learn more about fire extinguishers in the Command Center: Fire Extinguisher ABCs.     Check that your home has operational smoke alarms. There should be smoke alarms on each level or floor, and in each sleeping area. Learn more about smoke alarms in the Command Center: Smoke Alarms.     Check that appliances such as irons and toasters are turned off and stored properly after use. For example, hot irons should always be set on end, out of reach of children.     Check that all lamps are away from curtains and other flammable items. Never drape a cloth, plastic sheet or other material that can burn over a lamp.     Make sure you know how to call 9-1-1. Fill out the 911 Information Card Download. Learn more about 9-1-1 in the Command Center: 911 Emergency!     Create a home escape plan and practice escape drills at least twice a year. Learn more about escape plans and escape drills in the Command Center: Fire Escape.     Practice Stop, Drop & Roll so you know what to do when it counts. Learn more about Stop, Drop & Roll in the Command Center: Stop, Drop & Roll.

Home Hazard & Safety Checklist Download Walk through your home with this hazard and safety checklist. Home Hazard & Safety Checklist