Jennifer Regar has tips on making homes safer and preventing such damage. Each year than 4,000 American lives are lost, and 500,000 homes are damaged or destroyed by fires. Housing and Environment Specialist Janie Harris says a few common-sense tips can save lives and homes. Specialist Many fires in the home begin in the kitchen, so teaching family members to be extra cautious in the kitchen is a good practice.
Many fires also result from improper use of appliances.
If you do not change your lint filter on a dryer, especially if you have a gas dryer, that lint can become overheated and can even ignite and start a fire. Oftentimes, you'll see it smoldering and there will be a smoke coming out from the bottom of the dryer. Never leave portable heaters unattended and be sure they carry an Underwriters Laboratory seal. If you absolutely must use an Extension cord, use a heavy-duty one and only plug one or two items into the cord. All homes should be equipped with smoke detectors, and families should practice escape routes.