Over the past year, our agency has seen more fire claims than ever before; and that’s something we never want to see happen to our customers! While not every fire can be prevented, many can be avoided with a few simple habits and regular check-ins at home.
Think of this as a friendly reminder to pause, take a look around your home, and make sure you and your family are set up for safety.
🔥 Everyday Fire Safety Tips Worth Repeating
Most home fires don’t start with something dramatic — they start with everyday habits we barely think about. The good news? Small changes can make a huge difference when it comes to protecting your home and your people.
Let’s start with the basics:
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Keep flammable items off the stove.
That stack of mail, paper towels, or dish rags sitting near the burners may not seem like a big deal, until it is. Even when the stove is “off,” residual heat or an accidental bump of a knob from a pet, child, or other family member can cause ignition. A clear stovetop is one of the simplest (and most overlooked) fire prevention habits. -
Unplug chargers when they’re not in use.
Chargers don’t stop drawing power just because your phone isn’t attached. Over time, heat buildup (especially from damaged cords or bargain chargers) can become a fire risk. If it’s not actively charging something, unplug it and give your outlets a break. (And save money on your Duke bill!) -
Never plug a space heater into a power strip.
Space heaters are energy hogs and need a direct wall outlet to operate safely. Power strips and extension cords can overheat quickly under that load, increasing the risk of fire. Also, remember the golden rule: keep heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn including furniture, curtains, blankets, or that cozy throw you love a little too much. -
Don’t sleep with your cell phone under your pillow or on your bed.
We know! This one’s hard! But phones generate heat while charging, and trapping them under pillows or blankets prevents that heat from escaping. If your phone needs to charge overnight, place it on a hard, open surface like a nightstand (or in another room). -
Clean out your chimney regularly.
If you use a fireplace or wood-burning stove, chimney maintenance isn’t optional. Creosote buildup is highly flammable and a leading cause of chimney fires. An annual cleaning helps ensure your cozy nights stay cozy and not “call-the-fire-department” exciting.
And while we’re at it, let’s talk about a few habits that quietly make your home safer every single day!
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Test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries every time we change the clocks.
Smoke detectors only help if they actually work (shocking, 😂 right?) Test them once a month and change batteries at least once a year but we recommend changing them every time you change the clocks (or sooner if they chirp at 2 a.m. just to spite you!). Bonus tip: replace all of your smoke detectors every 10 years. -
Have a fire extinguisher on every level of your home and know how to use it.
Owning one isn’t enough if no one knows where it is or how it works. Did you know they make special extinguishers for the kitchen? You can normally get a 2 pack on sale at Costco or Sam’s Club. Take a few minutes to review the instructions after you purchase and make sure they are easily accessible. In an emergency, confidence matters more than Googling. -
Never leave candles unattended.
Candles set the mood… and sometimes the house on fire. Always extinguish them before leaving a room or going to bed, and keep them away from kids, pets, and anything that could tip them over. Flameless candles give all the vibes with none of the risk. -
Stay alert in the kitchen.
Cooking is still the leading cause of home fires, especially when distractions creep in. If you’re frying, boiling, or broiling, stay nearby and keep an eye on things. That text message can wait — your house cannot.
🚪 Have an Exit Plan and Practice It Regularly
If a fire does happen, having a plan can save lives.
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Make sure your family knows at least two ways out of every room.
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Designate a safe meeting place outside the home.
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Practice your exit plan regularly, including with children and pets.
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Talk through what to do if an exit is blocked and remind everyone to stay low in smoky conditions.
Practicing may feel silly until it isn’t. In an emergency, muscle memory matters.
❤️ We’re Here for More Than Just Policies
Your insurance policy is there to protect you financially, but our goal is always to help you avoid the claim in the first place. A few small steps today can help keep your home, memories, and loved ones safe tomorrow.
If you have questions about coverage, home safety, or want to review your policy, we’re always just a call away.
(513) 831-4544