Severe weather fire safety outreach materials

Severe weather can happen at any time, in any part of the country. That’s why it’s important for your community to be ready for severe weather events — and to understand the fire risks that can come with them.

Fire safety tips to share

Smoke alarms

Put smoke alarms on every level of your home, in every bedroom, and outside sleeping areas.

Test your alarms once a month and replace nine-volt batteries at least once a year.

Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.

Winter weather

Schedule an appointment to have your heating system inspected by a professional.

Move anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heating equipment.

Use only seasoned hardwood for fireplaces and wood stoves.

Portable generators

Read the owners’ manual and follow the directions.

Use a heavy-duty extension cord designed for outside use when you connect to the generator.

Check cords to make sure they are not frayed or broken.

Emergency lighting during severe weather

never use candles for emergency lighting

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Use flashlights for emergency lighting and stock up on batteries.
Never use candles for emergency lighting. Many things in your home can catch fire if they come too close to a candle’s flame.

Materials to share

Smoke alarms

Severe weather brings an increased risk of fire due to power outages. Working smoke alarms are especially important during a loss of power when people may use alternate forms of heating equipment, portable generators and candles. Each of these can start a home fire.

Share these materials with your community to teach the importance of fire safety and working home smoke alarms.