Fire Safety Tips for Apartment Renters

By following simple precautions, you can help prevent fires and ensure you know how to respond in an emergency. Here are some key fire safety tips to keep in mind:

Fire Safety Tips

• Never leave cooking unattended – Unattended cooking is one of the leading causes of household fires. Always stay in the kitchen while cooking and turn off the stove if you need to step away.
• Extinguish candles and heaters before leaving a room or sleeping – Open flames and heating appliances can quickly become fire hazards if left unattended.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets – Plugging too many devices into a single outlet can cause overheating and potentially lead to an electrical fire.
• Know where the nearest fire extinguisher is – Familiarise yourself with the locations of fire extinguishers in your building and ensure you know how to use them properly.

Do’s & Don’ts of Kitchen Fires

The kitchen is a common place for fires to start, so it’s important to know how to handle them safely:

• Do cover flames with a lid – If a fire starts in a pot or pan, place a lid over the flames to smother them.
• Leave the lid on until the pot or pan has cooled – Removing the lid too soon could allow the fire to reignite.
• Do not move a burning pan or pot – Moving it could spread the flames or cause serious burns.
• Do not use water – Water can cause grease fires to flare up dangerously.
• Never turn your back on the fire – Stay aware and keep a clear escape route in case the fire grows.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

If you need to put out a fire, follow the PASS method:

• Pull the pin to unlock the extinguisher.
• Aim at the base of the fire, getting as close as safely possible.
• Squeeze the handle gently and keep a consistent flow.
• Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames until the fire is fully out.

Final Thoughts

Fire safety is a shared responsibility in apartment living. Always be mindful of potential fire hazards, familiarise yourself with emergency procedures, and take the necessary precautions to keep yourself and your neighbors safe. By being prepared, you can help prevent fires and respond effectively if one occurs.