HOPKINTON FIRE DEPARTMENT
Reducing Fire Hazards in Your Home
·Have a professional clean and inspect your heating system every year prior to the heating season.
·Keep combustible materials away from the furnace and hot water heater.
·Make sure your heating system is well ventilated.
·If you use a wood stove, clean your chimney each year.
·Smokers should be sure that all smoking materials are properly disposed of and extinguished.
·Turn off portable space heaters when you leave the room.
·Never overload an electrical outlet.
·Check plugs for damage.
·Replace all frayed or cracked cords.
·Never run cords under rugs or through high traffic areas.
·Keep all exits from your home clear of obstructions.
·Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
·Don’t leave food unattended on the stove, or the handles of the pans sticking over the edge.
·Store flammable and combustible liquids in approved containers only, away from heat and flames.
·Do not store flammable liquids inside your home.
·Test and maintain your smoke detectors according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
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