Bringing Fire Safety Home: Protecting What Matters Most

We Actively C.A.R.E.™ for those we work with, but this mindset extends beyond the workplace – it’s something we bring home to our families. When you ask people what drives them to pursue their next goal, most will say it’s for their family. Family plays a huge role in all our lives, both at work and at home, yet we often take it for granted until something unexpected happens. Fires may cause extensive damage – not just to drilling equipment, but to homes as well.

I remember a time where I nearly lost someone dear to me in a fire. That day is forever etched into my memory. No one will ever be prepared for what a fire can do to your home and the aftermath that follows. I hope this reminder encourages you to take proactive steps to protect what matters most.

Top 10 things to know about fire safety:

• Install smoke alarms.

Smoke alarms are your first line of defense in case of a fire. They provide early warning to allow you and your loved ones time to evacuate safely. Ensure you check and change the batteries each fall and spring when the time changes.

• Buy fire extinguishers.

Fire extinguishers can stop a small fire from growing out of control. There should be at least one multipurpose fire extinguisher for each level of your property. However, it is important to know how to use it correctly. Local fire departments often provide basic fire extinguisher training.

• Create and practice a fire escape plan

Create a home fire escape plan with two ways out of every room. Choose a place to meet outside that is a safe distance away from your home.

• Matches and lighters are tools for adults only.

Use only child-resistant lighters and store all matches and lighters up high where kids can't see or reach them, preferably in a locked cabinet. Teach children that matches and lighters are tools for grown-ups only.

• Cook with caution.

Cooking fires are among the leading causes of home fires and injuries. Always remain in the kitchen while you’re frying, grilling, or using an open flame. Ensure that children and pets stay at least three feet away from the stove. Wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when cooking. Long and loose clothing can easily catch fire.

• Maintain heating equipment.

Be cautious when using space heaters so that they don’t damage nearby cloth, unintentionally heat nearby metals, or get within range of flammable objects. Keep flammable materials away from these heating sources. Keep children and pets away from heaters and turn them off when you go to bed or leave the room.

• Don’t overload outlets.

Homeowners have a tendency to overload sockets. This includes installing extension cables and multi-point sockets without realizing the risks it may pose. It is recommended to only have one plug per socket because too many appliances can overheat and cause a fire.

• Check for hazards before you go to bed.

It takes a lot longer to become aware of a fire while you’re asleep. It is therefore incredibly important to make sure that your house is as safe as possible from the threat of a fire before you go to bed. Instilling a bedtime routine that incorporates this is very beneficial and is quick and easy to conduct. Simply go around your home checking that the cooker is off, turning off and unplugging appliances, ensuring candles and cigarettes are put out and disposed of properly, and turning heaters off.

• Keep high fire risk areas tidy.

Fires only need three elements to start: a source of ignition, oxygen, and a fuel source. Keeping areas in your home clean and tidy can help you reduce the fire risk.

• Clean your dryer filter.

Dryers are responsible for almost 90 percent of appliance fires and 34 percent of these fires occur due to a failure to clean them. Remove all lint from the lint filter and the back of the dryer before and after each cycle. Keep flammable items away from the dryer area and check that the venting system is unobstructed.

Keeping our homes and families safe

Fire safety isn’t just a responsibility at the workplace—it’s a commitment we should carry into our homes as well. You can significantly reduce the risk of fire and protect what matters most by taking the time to implement these simple precautions. Every proactive step you take can make all the difference whether it’s installing smoke alarms, practicing escape plans, or ensuring heating equipment is used safely. Let’s work together to Actively C.A.R.E. as we create safer environments, both on the job and in our homes.