October is Fire Prevention Month: Here are 5 ways to protect your home

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors, Kitchen Safety, Fire Escape Planning, and More

Every October, we’re reminded of an important truth: fire safety starts at home. With colder weather setting in, heaters turning on, and holiday cooking just around the corner, now is the perfect time to focus on prevention. In honor of Fire Prevention Month, here are a few essential steps you can take to keep your family and property safe.

Fire Prevention Month

October is recognized nationwide as Fire Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the steps we can all take to reduce the risk of fire in our homes and workplaces. Fires can spread quickly, but with the right precautions in place, many of them are preventable. In honor of this month, we’ve put together five essential fire safety tips to help you protect your family, your property, and your peace of mind.

1. Testing your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Smoke alarms are your home’s first line of defense in the event of a fire. They provide early warning and give you and your family valuable time to escape. To make sure they’re working properly, test your alarms once a month by pressing the test button until you hear the alarm sound. If an alarm doesn’t go off, replace the batteries right away. Experts recommend changing batteries at least once a year and replacing the entire unit every 10 years. Don’t forget—alarms should be placed on every level of your home, including hallways outside sleeping areas.

2. Inspecting electrical systems

Faulty wiring and overloaded circuits are among the most common causes of house fires. Regularly check for warning signs like flickering lights, outlets that feel warm, or circuit breakers that trip frequently. Avoid plugging too many appliances into one outlet or power strip, and replace frayed or damaged cords right away. If your home is older, consider having a licensed electrician perform a full inspection to ensure your system can handle modern energy demands safely. Preventing electrical malfunctions today can protect your family and property tomorrow.

3. Maintaining heating equipment

As temperatures drop, many households rely on space heaters, fireplaces, and central heating systems to stay warm. Always keep portable heaters at least three feet away from curtains, rugs, bedding, and other flammable materials. Make sure your fireplace chimney is inspected and cleaned annually to prevent dangerous creosote buildup. If you use central heating, have it serviced each year to confirm it’s running efficiently and safely. These extra steps not only help prevent fires but also ensure your heating systems work at their best throughout the season.

4. Practicing kitchen safety

Cooking remains the leading cause of home fires, so taking precautions in the kitchen is essential. Never leave food unattended on the stove, especially when frying or grilling, as grease fires can ignite quickly. Keep flammable items like dish towels, paper products, and wooden utensils away from heat sources. If a small grease fire starts, turn off the heat and cover the pan with a lid—never use water, as it can make the fire spread. Most importantly, stay alert: avoid cooking if you’re tired, distracted, or under the influence of alcohol.

5. Create and practice a fire escape plan

It sounds like a silly practice, we know. But a fire can spread in just minutes, which means every second counts. Sit down with your household to create a fire escape plan that includes at least two ways out of each room, whenever possible. Designate a safe meeting spot outside, such as the mailbox or a neighbor’s driveway, where everyone can gather once they’re out. Then, practice the plan at least twice a year, both during the day and at night. The more familiar everyone is with the escape route, the less likely panic will take over during a real emergency.

Fire safety isn’t something to think about only once a year—it’s a habit that can protect lives every day. By testing alarms, creating a family plan, staying alert in the kitchen, and keeping your electrical and heating systems in check, you’ll be better prepared to prevent emergencies before they start. As we observe Fire Prevention Month this October, let’s take the opportunity to make our homes and communities safer, one small step at a time.