Frequently Check Smoke Detectors. Having smoke detectors installed in the house and making sure they are properly maintained is the top way to reduce the risk of fire-related injury and lessen the damage that occurs to the home. Test them every 30 days to be sure the batteries are still charged.

Have a Fire Escape Plan. Knowing how to escape the house in the event of a house fire is another important aspect of fire safety. This will help ensure all family members know exactly what to do when the alarm sounds and can react accordingly to get to safety.

Know How to Operate a Fire Extinguisher. Keeping a fire extinguisher handy and knowing how to use it will ensure that you can extinguish a flame if it is safe to do so. Be sure to purchase the right classification that your household is the most likely to need.

Never Leave Flames Unattended. While some flames—like those from the stovetop or from candles—may initially seem harmless, these are the exact flames that cause thousands of fires each year. If a fire is burning in any regard, never leave it unattended in a room.

Keep a Closed-Door Policy. The house fires that break out during the night are some of the most deadly, due to the decreased reaction time of sleeping victims. The good news is that sleeping with a closed door can dramatically slow down a fire’s spread as it makes its way toward the sleeping rooms of your home, giving everyone more time to react.