Prevent a fire from starting in your home. The most common causes of residential fires are careless cooking and faulty heating equipment. When cooking, never leave food on a stove or in an oven unattended. Avoid wearing clothes with long, loose-fitting sleeves. Have your heating system checked annually, and follow manufacturer's instructions when using portable heaters.
Smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths and the second most common cause of residential fires.
If you are a smoker, do not smoke in bed, never leave burning cigarettes unattended, do not empty smoldering ashes in the trash, and keep ashtrays away from upholstered furniture and curtains. Keep matches and lighters away from children. Safely store flammable substances used throughout the home. Never leave burning candles unattended.