Home Safe Home®

Create a safer home by taking simple precautions.

Be prepared

• Have telephones in easy reach of both your bed and the place you sit most often.
• Place emergency phone numbers on or near every phone in your home.
• Buy a first-aid kit. Keep one in both your home and your car.

Avoid Fires

• Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms throughout the house. Test them periodically to make sure they work. Batteries should be changed at least once a year.
• Place fire extinguishers in the kitchen and other rooms. Make sure you know how to use them.
• Never smoke in bed.
• Turn off appliances when they are not in use.
• Run electrical cords along walls, not under rugs.
• Don't overload outlets and extension cords.
• Never store flammable liquids such as cleaning agents and paint supplies near heating units.
• Keep space heaters a safe distance from combustibles. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines.
• Have more than one escape route from your home. Practice these routes with your family.

A Recipe for Careful Cooking

• Keep flammable objects such as curtains, aprons and dishtowels away from stoves.
• Never wear loose clothing near a stovetop while cooking.
• Never leave cooking unattended. Don't cook if you are drowsy.
• Heat oil slowly. Heating oil too quickly can easily start a fire.
• If a pan catches fire, carefully place a lid over the pan and turn off the heat. Leave the lid on until completely cool.
• Always clean appliances and surfaces after cooking to prevent grease buildup.
• Make sure handles on cookware are secure and always turned toward the center of the stove when cooking.
• Use a step stool instead of a chair to climb to a high shelf.

Avoid bumps, burns, bruises and falls

• Make sure staircases are well lit and have convenient switches and night-lights at the top and bottom.
• Securely fasten all carpeting and make sure all throw rugs or area rugs have non-skid backing.
• Install rubber mats or safety decals in bathtubs and showers.
• Close cabinet doors and drawers when they are not in use.
• Keep staircases and hallways free of clutter.
• Never go up and down stairs carrying things that could block your vision or put you off balance.

Need more information?

Having a safe home also means practicing good child safety and understanding and securing the danger zones in your home. Visit your local State Farm® agent for additional information.