Tips to Prevent and Survive a Fire: Fire Prevention Week

It's Fire Prevention Week and the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office is urging you to review fire safety information from the U.S. Fire Administration.

More than 3,400 Americans die each year in fires and about 17,500 people are injured, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Many of those fires happen at home.

Here are some ways to prevent and survive a fire, courtesy of the U.S. Fire Administration:

• Every Home Should Have at Least One Working Smoke Alarm
• Never overload circuits or extension cords; and do not place cords and wires under rugs, over nails or in high traffic areas.
• When using appliances follow the manufacturer's safety precautions. Unplug appliances when not in use. Use safety caps to cover all unused outlets, especially if there are small children in the home.
• Portable heaters need their space. Keep anything combustible at least three feet away. Keep fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually. Kerosene heaters should be used only where approved by authorities. Never use gasoline or camp-stove fuel. Refuel outside and only after the heater has cooled.
• When home fire sprinklers are used with working smoke alarms, your chances of surviving a fire are greatly increased. Sprinklers are affordable - they can increase property value and lower insurance rates.
• Practice an escape plan from every room in the house.
• Children under five are naturally curious about fire. Many play with matches and lighters. Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching your children that fire is a tool, not a toy.