Your home is your sanctuary—but it’s also where accidental fires most often begin. At Badger Mutual, we believe in protecting what matters most: your family, your home, and your peace of mind. That’s why our claims team has put together these essential fire safety tips to help prevent emergencies before they happen.
Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms
Fire safety starts with smoke alarms. These devices are your first line of defense. Install them on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and change the batteries every six months. If your smoke alarms are over 10 years old, it’s time to replace them.
Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan
Every second counts in a fire. Make a fire escape plan with at least two ways out of every room, and practice it with your family twice a year. Keep hallways and exits clear of clutter to allow for a quick evacuation. Make sure children understand the plan and know how to get out safely.
For more detailed guidance on creating an effective home fire escape plan, visit the National Fire Protection Association.
Kitchen Fire Safety: Cook with Caution
Cooking is a leading cause of house fires. Never leave the stove or oven unattended. Stay in the kitchen while cooking, especially when using high heat. Keep flammable materials—like towels, paper, and curtains—away from burners. Turn pot handles inward to prevent spills, clean grease regularly, and always keep a lid or baking soda nearby to smother small grease fires. Never use water on grease fires.
Electrical Safety: Don’t Overload Your Home
Avoid overloading outlets, power strips, or extension cords. Inspect cords and plugs regularly for signs of fraying or damage. Replace damaged ones immediately. Unplug appliances when not in use, and only use UL-listed electrical devices and extension cords. For any wiring repairs or upgrades, hire a licensed electrician to keep your home safe.
Heating & Lighting: Use with Care
Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn. Never plug a space heater into a power strip, and never use one to dry clothes or thaw pipes. Always turn heaters off when you leave the room or go to sleep. Opt for flameless candles whenever possible, and never leave real candles unattended. Keep them away from anything that could catch fire, and out of reach of children and pets. Have your chimney and fireplace cleaned annually to prevent dangerous creosote buildup.
Garage & Outdoor Areas: Safety Beyond the Living Room
Store gasoline, propane, and chemicals in approved containers and keep them outside of living spaces. Maintain your lawn equipment to avoid fuel leaks and ensure all machinery is in good working order. Keep grills and fire pits at least 10 feet away from your house, deck, garage, or any flammable materials. When disposing of fire pit ash or used charcoal, let it cool completely in a lidded metal container before placing it in the garbage or compost.
Fire safety isn’t complicated—but it does take intention. By making small, proactive choices today, you’re protecting the people and memories that make your house a home. Whether it’s testing alarms, staying present in the kitchen, or keeping exits clear, each step brings peace of mind. A safer home starts with you.
Reach out to your Badger agent today to ensure your personal and business policies are up-to-date, providing year-round protection for you and your family.
