by the Eastchester Fire Department

June 25, 2024: Below are some general fire safety tips for your home this summer, whether at home or away. This is not an exhaustive list but provides some general guidelines.

1. Outlets

-Plug appliances and electronics into an outlet.

-Do not plug appliances and electronics, including refrigerators, microwaves, air conditioners, and all other appliances and electronics, into an extension cord, power strip or surge protector. 

2. Power Strips

-Power strips can be used for low-wattage devices such as standard phone chargers.

-All power strips and surge protectors must be "UL listed" and have overcurrent protection. UL Listed means that a product has been tested and meets the safety standards set by an independent organization dedicated to public safety.  Make sure your surge protectors also have overcurrent protection. Check on this when you purchase one.

Pictured: Example of where you might find an indication that a product is UL Listed.  

-Do Not Overload

*Be careful not to plug too many devices into one outlet or power strip. 

*Never overload a power strip or surge protector.

*Do not run the cord for the power strip under a rug or through a wall.

3. Extension cords

-Extension cords are for temporary use only. Never use extension cords for appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, or air conditioners.

-Extension cords should be properly sized. This means that you should select an extension cord that matches the gauge of the wire used in the device its powering.  Check on this when you purchase one.

-Don't overload an extension cord with multiple devices. Each device should draw less than the cord's rated capacity.

4. Unplugging 

If going away, unplug small appliances like toasters, microwaves, blenders, electric kettles, space heaters, coffee makers, portable air conditioners, and other appliances, particularly those with heating elements or clocks. 

Other electronics and appliances that should be unplugged if going away include TVs, computers, gaming consoles, and chargers, especially those with lithium-ion batteries, air conditioners, fans, and space heaters. 

Appliances can pose a fire hazard if left plugged in, especially if they malfunction or are defective. Unplugging appliances reduces the risk of damage from power surges, which can be caused by storms or other electrical issues. Unplugging also saves energy. 

While some modern appliances have safety features, unplugging them eliminates the risk of fire or electrical damage from potential surges or malfunctions while you're away. It also helps reduce "phantom load," the energy consumed by appliances even when switched off but still plugged in.

5. Other Fire Safety Reminders

-Store gasoline and other flammable liquids in approved containers, away from heat sources and ignition points. 

-Smoke Alarms: Make sure you have working smoke alarms