Fire is the number one emergency in the United States. Each year, more than 4,000 Americans die in fires, more than 25,000 are injured in fires, and more than 100 firefighters are killed while on duty. Most of these deaths occur in residences and could have been prevented.

Common Fire Hazards

A house fire can be caused by many different things, and it only needs a small spark to get started. Some common home fire hazards are:

• Smoking/lit cigarettes
• Open flames from a stove top burner
• Candles left unattended around children and/or pets
• Dryer lint traps that aren't cleaned out regularly
• Old, worn, or frayed electrical cords
• Overloaded electrical outlets and power strips
• Unsafe fireplaces or stoves

Fire Basics

In order to protect yourself, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fire.

• Fire is FAST. In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.
• Fire is DARK. Fire produces gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three- to- one ratio.
• Fire is HOT. Heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames. Inhaling the super hot air can sear your lungs.