Simple Steps to Reduce Fire Risks in Your Home

March 5, 2025

Fire Safety at Home: Simple Changes That Make a Big Difference

Fire might be great for warmth and cooking, but when it’s uninvited, it can turn lives upside down. The good news? A few small tweaks around the house can help keep those flames where they belong—inside the fireplace, BBQ, or stove. Let’s go through some easy ways to lower the risk and keep your home safe.

Check and Maintain Smoke Alarms

Nothing beats an early warning system, and that’s exactly what smoke alarms provide. A working smoke alarm can be the difference between a close call and a disaster. Here’s what to do:

Test your smoke alarms once a month—just a quick press of the button.
Replace the batteries at least once a year, or opt for long-life batteries.
Make sure smoke alarms are installed in every bedroom, living area, and hallway.

It’s a small habit that makes a huge difference. Plus, it saves your ears from that annoying chirping sound when the battery is low!

Keep an Eye on Cords and Appliances

Electrical fires love frayed cords and overloaded power boards. That dodgy phone charger you got from the bargain bin? It’s probably not worth the risk. Stay on top of these:

Replace damaged cords as soon as you notice wear and tear.
Don’t overload outlets—spread out appliances across different sockets.
Unplug small appliances when they’re not in use.

While it might be tempting to run every gadget at once, giving your electricity a break helps reduce fire risks.

Keep Flammable Objects Away from Heat Sources

Seems obvious, right? But you’d be surprised how often fires start because a tea towel, curtain, or newspaper got a little too close to the stove or heater. Keep these in mind:

Never leave cooking unattended—one little distraction can lead to big trouble.
Keep heaters at least a metre away from anything that can burn.
Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed.

Simple changes in habit can go a long way in keeping your space safe.

Store and Handle Flammable Liquids Safely

That tin of petrol for the mower or the gas bottle for the BBQ? Both are handy but need proper storage. Handle them with care:

Keep flammable liquids in tightly sealed containers away from direct heat.
Store fuels and chemicals outdoors or in a secure, well-ventilated area.
Never smoke near flammable materials.

A bit of caution goes a long way when dealing with anything combustible.

Have a Fire Escape Plan

No one likes to think about the worst-case scenario, but having a plan in place ensures that if a fire does break out, everyone knows what to do. Here’s what to consider:

Make sure every household member knows at least two ways to exit each room.
Practice a home fire drill twice a year—just like at school!
Decide on a safe meeting point outside.

A well-practised plan helps keep panic at bay and gets everyone to safety faster.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher and Fire Blanket Handy

Even small fires can get out of control quickly. Keeping a fire extinguisher in an easy-to-reach spot gives you a fighting chance. A fire blanket in the kitchen is also a must for grease fires—water won’t help in those situations! Be sure to:

Check the expiry date on your fire extinguisher.
Place it somewhere easily accessible—near the kitchen or garage is ideal.
Make sure at least one person in the house knows how to use it properly.

Small Efforts, Big Impact

Fire safety doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small precautions and regular maintenance can help keep your home and family safe. Take a little time today to check on your home’s fire safety—future you will be glad you did.

Got any other fire safety tips? Share them with us on Facebook! Stay safe and happy DIY-ing!

Cheers,
Candeece