Protect your home and family from fire hazards. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Test the batteries every month and replace them once a year. Create a family escape plan.

Unattended cooking equipment is the leading cause of home cooking fires. Always be sure someone takes over the preparation when needed. Before cooking, clean the stovetop and oven to wipe away any grease or dust to prevent a fire.

While cooking, it’s easy to forget about something in the oven, especially when you’re entertaining guests. Use a kitchen timer to make sure your dish doesn’t burn. When cooking on the stove, use the back burners to protect yourself from spills and wear close-fitting or short-sleeved clothing. Keep a close eye on children.

Always locate appliances away from the sink to avoid any electrical dangers. Plug countertop appliances into Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)-protected outlets and keep cords away from hot surfaces like toasters. Unplug appliances when finished.