Fires are more common in the summer because of the hot and dry conditions during this season. It raises the chance of ignition, especially when paired with daily routines that involve heat or open flame.
The U.S. Fire Administration reports nearly 5,000 fires per day during the summer months. Many of them are tied to outdoor cooking and poor storage of flammable materials. Fortunately, you can reduce the fire risk by preparing ahead. This article covers fire safety tips to keep your home and family protected this summer.
Flat lay of summer fire safety essentials: smoke detector, fire extinguisher, extension cords, grill tools, flammable warning labels, bright daylight, wooden background, informative safety poster aesthetic
Fire Safety Reminders to Keep Your Home Safe This Season
The following tips show how small changes at home can prevent fire risks during the hottest months.
1. Install Smoke Alarms Where Fires Can Spread Unseen
Fires start in areas where people typically don’t spend time, such as storage spaces or car garages. If there’s no working smoke alarm in those rooms, flames can spread quickly.
Mount smoke alarms on the ceiling and put them in the center if possible. Keep them away from vents or ceiling fans so smoke won’t get pushed aside. After installing the alarm, press the test button and change the battery annually to ensure it’ll work when it counts.
2. Keep Fire Extinguishers Visible and Ready to Use
When a fire starts, immediate action matters. A fire extinguisher gives you a chance to stop a flame before it grows.
Mount a fire extinguisher in areas where fires are more likely to start, like the kitchen or garage. Keep it somewhere easy to reach and ensure each family member knows how to use it. If the label shows it’s expired, replace the extinguisher right away.
3. Never Leave the Stove or Oven Unwatched
Most house fires start in the kitchen due to food or oil being left heating unattended.
If you leave the kitchen for any reason, turn off the stove. Also clear away anything flammable such as paper or plastic near burners. When baking, stay close and use a timer so the oven doesn’t overheat.
4. Grill Outside and Create a Clear Buffer Around the Heat Source
Grills produce strong flames and if placed too close to walls or roof edges, the heat can build up and ignite nearby surfaces.
Avoid placing your grill near fences, or overhangs. Instead, set it up in an open space with good airflow. Also, stay close to the grill while cooking and keep water or a fire extinguisher within reach. After cooking, turn off the gas and let the grill cool fully before covering or storing it.
5. Use One Plug Per Outlet and Remove Any Damaged Cords
Overloaded outlets are a major cause of electrical fires. Too many plugs in one socket or a damaged cord can lead to dangerous heat buildup.
Plug high-use appliances, such as electric fans and space heaters, into separate outlets. If a plug sparks or a cord feels hot, unplug it and replace the damaged part. Additionally, don’t run cords under rugs or behind heavy furniture as the wirings can get exposed and start a fire.
6. Store Flammable Liquids Where Heat Can’t Reach Them
Even sealed flammable liquids release vapors. If stored near heat, a small spark can ignite the fumes and cause a flash fire.
To lower that risk, don’t place gasoline and paint containers near dryers or water heaters. Instead, place them in a cool, well-ventilated area of your shed or garage.
7. Put Out Candles and Cigarettes Before You Leave the Room
Small flames can turn dangerous if no one’s around to put them out. Candles and cigarettes seem harmless once the flame dies down, but the leftover heat can still start a fire.
Set each candle in a sturdy holder and place it far from curtains or paper. If you smoke, step outside and drop used ashes into water. Before leaving, check that every wick and cigarette is fully out.
One Change Now Is Better Than Regret Later
These fire safety tips help reduce the risk of a house fire. Set aside time this week to make at least one change whether that’s mounting a smoke alarm or moving cords away from rugs. What’s the first fix you’ll make for a safer summer?
FAQs:
- Where should I put fire extinguishers at home?
Place one in the kitchen, garage, and near exits. - How often should I check my smoke alarms?
Test them once a month and replace batteries yearly. - Is it safe to grill on a porch or balcony?
No—grill outdoors in an open area, away from walls. - Can candles start a fire if left alone?
Yes—never leave a candle burning without supervision. - What’s a safe distance for space heaters?
Keep them at least 3 feet away from anything flammable. - Where should I store gasoline and paint?
In a cool, ventilated shed—never near heat sources. - How do I make a family fire escape plan?
Draw exits, set a meeting point, and practice once. - Are fireworks a fire risk near dry grass?
Yes—only light fireworks in cleared, non-flammable areas. - Can power cords overheat under rugs?
Yes—don’t run cords where heat and pressure can build. - Should I close doors before sleeping?
Yes—closed doors help slow smoke and flames during fires.