A few common-sense precautions may prevent some homes and lives from being damaged or destroyed. First, know some of the common causes of home fires and take steps to eliminate or correct them. Electrical dangers can come from many different sources. If using candles, make sure they are placed securely in a spot where they can't be accidently tipped over, or where fabric or some other combustible material can accidently reach the flame. Clean the lint filter of the clothes dryer after each use.
Oily fabrics can spontaneously combust and start a fire that can spread to the house.
And above all, be prepared. All the caution in the world may not prevent a house from burning in a fire, so, in addition to installing smoke alarms, having a family escape route is of vital importance, Harris said. Each family member should have a plan for at least two escape routes out of the house if it should catch on fire, and all should know the family meeting place once they have escaped from the burning building. Two escape routes gives each person an extra way out if the first route is blocked because of the fire, Harris said.