A fire can become life-threatening in just two minutes—and a home can be engulfed in flames in five. Knowing how fires spread, how to respond, and how to prevent them can mean the difference between safety and tragedy.
How Fire Behaves
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Fast: In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can grow into a major fire.
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Hot: Room temperatures can reach 600°F at eye level—enough to melt clothing.
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Dark: Smoke quickly turns a room pitch black.
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Deadly: Most fire deaths are caused by smoke and toxic gases, not flames.
Smoke Alarms Save Lives
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly. Replace batteries twice a year (or use 10-year lithium models) and replace the entire unit every 10 years. Never disable an alarm while cooking.
Before a Fire
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Create and practice a fire escape plan twice a year.
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Identify two exits per room and make sure windows and doors open easily.
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Store digital copies of important documents and confirm insurance coverage.
During a Fire
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Stay low under smoke and head toward the nearest exit.
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Feel doors before opening; if hot, use another route.
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Stop, drop and roll if your clothes catch fire.
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Call 9-1-1 immediately once you are safely outside.
After a Fire
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Contact your local disaster relief agency for assistance.
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Wait for fire department clearance before entering your home.
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Save all receipts related to recovery and notify your insurance and mortgage companies.
Prevent Home Fires
Most home fires are preventable:
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Cooking: Stay in the kitchen and keep sleeves short.
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Electrical: Replace frayed cords and never overload outlets.
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Holidays: Water your tree daily, turn off lights before bed, and keep candles away from flammable items.
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Heating: Keep space heaters three feet from anything that can burn.
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Children: Keep matches and lighters locked away and teach that fire is a tool, not a toy.
Stay Protected
Sleep with bedroom doors closed, keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, and consider installing a home sprinkler system.
Learn more at the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) website for hands-on safety resources and installation assistance.
