Homeowners’ Most Common Fire Safety Questions

Most home fires are preventable, and a little routine upkeep goes a long way toward keeping your household safe. Things like regularly replacing your smoke alarms, keeping your stovetop clean, and having your chimney regularly swept are much easier to stay on top of than most people think and can make a real difference.

Fire safety is a topic that’s always worth a refresher, so we’ve put together answers to the questions homeowners ask most, covering smoke alarms, yard debris, kitchen safety, and chimney maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Fire Safety

How often should I replace my smoke alarms?

Smoke alarms must be replaced every 10 years from their manufacture date under NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code. Test units monthly and install new batteries at least twice a year in models that use replaceable batteries. Changing the batteries when you change your clock for daylight saving time is a simple way to keep track.

What are the rules for burning yard waste at home?

In Massachusetts, open burning of yard waste is only allowed from January 15 to May 1, with a permit from your local fire department, between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., and at least 75 feet from any building. It’s banned year-round in 22 densely populated cities and towns, and an adult must attend the fire at all times with tools like a hose, rake, and shovel on hand.

In Connecticut, the rules are stricter: leaves and grass are not considered brush and cannot be burned. Only brush, such as shrubs or prunings under three inches in diameter, may be burned, and only with a permit from your local Open Burning Official.

In both states, it is recommended that homeowners bag, mulch, or compost yard debris instead of burning it.

How do I prevent a cooking fire?

By practicing a few simple cooking safety habits, you can help prevent fires in the kitchen. These include:

• Remaining in the kitchen while the burners are turned on
• Maintaining a clean stovetop that is free from oil and grease
• Keeping an active ABC-rated fire extinguisher nearby
• Having a metal lid or baking soda on hand in case of a grease fire
• Maintaining a three-foot safety zone around the stove

When should I have my chimney inspected?

Have your chimney, flue, and heating vents inspected and cleaned once a year by a CSIA-certified chimney sweep, preferably before lighting your first fire of the season.

A few small habits can go a long way toward reducing the risk of fire in your home. However, even the most careful homeowners can’t eliminate every risk, which is why having the right homeowners insurance policy matters. If you have questions about your coverage or want to make sure that you already have the right protection in place, reach out to your local Bearingstar office to review your policy and get the answers you need.

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