Home Fire Prevention Tips
- Neil Burtt
- Jan 20
- 4 min read
October marks National Fire Prevention Month, a time to highlight the importance of fire safety in our homes. In this blog article, Cormack Vice President of Operations and Finance Suzanne Edwards, who also serves as the assistant fire chief for East Conway, shares tips on protecting your home and family.
“With 25 years as a volunteer firefighter, I am all too familiar with the devastation a fire can bring to a home,” Suzanne says. “Materials in newer homes burn so quickly, there’s no time to waste. You need to get out immediately and call 911. Don’t try to go back inside for any reason.”
Understanding the Risks
Suzanne notes that many common risks are associated with house fires—from faulty wiring and heating systems to unattended cooking and candles. “By recognizing these potential hazards, you can take proactive steps to eliminate them and keep your home and family safe,” she says.
Home Fire Safety Tips:
1. Install Smoke Detectors
A smoke detector is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to protect your home and family from a fire. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends having one on every floor level and near bedrooms.
“New Hampshire has had an alarming number of house fire-related deaths—13 in the first half of 2024 alone,” Suzanne points out. According to a June 2024 WMUR news report, 8 out of 11 fatal fires occurred in homes without functioning smoke detectors.
2. Test Smoke Alarms Regularly
Suzanne reminds homeowners to test their smoke alarms monthly, replacing them as needed. “It’s also important to remember that smoke alarms have a limited lifespan of up to 10 years. Check with the manufacturer for replacement guidelines,” she adds.
NOTE: The same recommendations apply to CO2 detectors.
Reducing the Risk of Death
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), homes with working smoke alarms have a 55% lower risk of fire-related deaths than those without.
3. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy
A fire extinguisher should be accessible in critical locations throughout a home—especially in kitchens and near fireplaces. Ensure all family members know how to use it.
4. Practice Kitchen and Candle Safety
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires. Stay in the kitchen while cooking, especially when using oil or frying. Keep flammable items away from the stove and have a fire extinguisher nearby.
Likewise, if you burn candles, never leave them unattended, and keep flammable materials away from them. Consider using flameless candles as a safer alternative.
5. Use Electrical Appliances with Caution
Regularly check cords and plugs for fraying or damage. Avoid overloading outlets and unplug appliances when not in use.
6. Regularly Inspect Heating Sources
Whether your heating source is a fireplace, space heater, or central heating system, ensure it is routinely maintained and inspected. If your heating system works harder than usual or gives off a burnt or smoky odor, have an HVAC professional look at it.
7. Clear the Clutter
Keep the space around your heating source free from clutter to allow proper airflow. Store any flammable materials like paint cans and cleaning products away from your heating equipment.
8. Keep Outdoor Grills Away From Your Home
Outdoor grilling is one of summer’s greatest pastimes. But if your grill is too close to your home, it could cause it to go up in flames. Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home, and NEVER use it on your deck or porch, in your garage or breezeway, or under a low tree canopy or other overhead structure.
9. Assess Your Home and Property
Take a few minutes to look around your property. Can a fire truck access your home if it catches on fire?
“Taking the time to be prepared can be the difference between life and death in a fire emergency."
—Suzanne Edwards
10. Create an Emergency Evacuation Plan
Suzanne recommends creating an evacuation plan and practicing it with your family. Teach children about fire safety, including the importance of staying low to the ground during a fire, not hiding from firefighters, and knowing how to call 911.
Keeping Your Home and Family Safe
At Cormack Construction, we build safe and reliable custom homes that stand the test of time. We are committed to ensuring our clients and community are well-informed and prepared. This October, let's prioritize fire safety together to protect our homes and loved ones from the unexpected dangers of a fire.
About Suzanne Edwards
Suzanne Edwards has been with Cormack Construction since 2008, currently serving as its vice president of operations and finance. She joined the East Conway Fire Department 25 years ago, a few years after buying her first home. There were a couple of large fires near her house, and Suzanne felt it was essential to do something to help her community. She has served as the department’s assistant fire chief since 2003.
About Cormack Construction Management
Cormack is an award-winning company offering custom home design, building, and remodeling throughout Northern New Hampshire and Western Maine since 1972. Contact our team to discuss your project and learn about our services.
home building and remodeling in northern New Hampshire and western Maine.
Comments