Fire safety isn’t the most exciting topic for a date night chat, but it’s one of those things you really want to be on the same page about. A small mistake can quickly turn into a dangerous situation, so it’s worth making sure both of you know what to do.
Here are 3 things to go over with your spouse to keep your home safe.
Stay Ahead with Regular Safety Checks
The best way to prevent a fire is to catch risks before they become a problem. Take a few minutes every couple of months to do a fire safety walkthrough together. Check smoke alarms—do they work? When was the last time you changed the batteries? If you have a fire extinguisher, is it still within its expiration date?
Beyond that, keep an eye out for hazards like overloaded outlets, frayed appliance cords, or anything flammable too close to heat sources. If you have a fireplace, getting your chimney inspected is a must—built-up soot and debris can cause dangerous chimney fires. The kitchen is another fire hotspot, so make sure stovetops are clear, and that no one’s leaving an oven mitt or kitchen towel too close to an open flame. This kind of regular checkup takes almost no time but can make a huge difference.
Have a Game Plan for Emergencies
If a fire actually starts, you both need to know what to do. First off, make sure you both understand how to use a fire extinguisher—just owning one isn’t enough. The basic rule is PASS: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. Try to put out small fires, but if it’s growing fast, don’t waste time—just get out.
Speaking of getting out, talk through your escape plan. What’s the quickest way out from different rooms in the house? If one exit is blocked, what’s the backup plan? If you have kids, how will you get them out? Decide on a meeting point outside so no one has to guess if the other made it out safely. It might feel unnecessary, but in a real emergency, having a plan could save lives.
Practice Smart Daily Habits
A lot of house fires happen because of small, everyday habits that people don’t think twice about.
Teach your spouse to double-check that candles are blown out before leaving a room and that space heaters aren’t left unattended. Encourage them to get in the habit of unplugging appliances like toasters or coffee makers when they’re not in use.
By staying proactive, having a solid escape plan, and practicing smart daily habits, you and your spouse can keep your home safe. And hey, if nothing else, going over these tips together might just be a great reason to spend some time together.
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