Los Angeles residents know the unique challenges of fire safety, especially with the increasing threat of wildfires. Fire prevention is critical to protecting your home, family, and pets. This comprehensive guide offers practical checklists for home fire safety and prevention, addressing general risks, wildfire-specific threats, and steps to safeguard your property and loved ones.
General Fire Safety Checklist
Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms
Place alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries every six months.
Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.
Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible
Place a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, garage, and other high-risk areas.
Ensure extinguishers are rated for general use (Class ABC).
Train family members on how to use them effectively.
Create a Fire Escape Plan
Map out two escape routes from every room.
Practice the plan with all household members at least twice a year.
Assign a meeting point outside the home.
Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets
Use surge protectors and avoid daisy-chaining power strips.
Replace frayed or damaged electrical cords immediately.
Hire a professional to inspect and update old wiring.
Wildfire Prevention Checklist
Defensible Space Around Your Home
Clear dry vegetation and debris within 30 feet of your home.
Trim tree branches at least 10 feet away from chimneys.
Use fire-resistant landscaping materials like gravel and native plants.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Include water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents.
Keep the kit in a readily accessible location.
Secure Your Home
Install ember-resistant vents to prevent embers from entering your home.
Use Class A fire-rated roofing materials.
Ensure gutters and roofs are clear of leaves and debris.
Stay Informed
Sign up for local emergency alerts.
Monitor weather and fire risk conditions regularly.
Electrical and Appliance Safety Checklist
Kitchen Safety
Never leave cooking unattended.
Keep flammable materials away from stovetops.
Regularly clean oven and stove surfaces to prevent grease build-up.
Inspect Heating Systems
Have heating systems and chimneys inspected annually.
Keep flammable items at least three feet away from heaters.
Laundry Room Precautions
Clean the lint filter after every dryer use.
Inspect dryer vents for blockages regularly.
Avoid running the dryer when you’re not home.
Family and Pet Safety Plans
Family Safety Plan
Ensure every family member knows the fire escape plan.
Teach children how to stop, drop, and roll.
Store emergency contact numbers in a central location.
Pet Safety Plan
Keep leashes and carriers near exits.
Include pet food and supplies in your emergency kit.
Ensure pets have updated ID tags and microchips.
Faqs
Test your smoke alarms monthly and replace the batteries every six months. Replace the alarms every 10 years.
Follow local evacuation orders immediately. Secure important documents and your emergency kit before leaving.
Use a multi-purpose (Class ABC) fire extinguisher for general household use.