Fire Prevention

Protect your home and family with these essential fire safety tips from the Southold Fire Department.

In case of fire emergency, call 911 immediately

Smoke Alarms

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home
Test smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button
Replace batteries at least once a year
Replace smoke alarms every 10 years
Never disable smoke alarms while cooking

Kitchen Safety

Never leave cooking unattended
Keep flammable items away from the stove
Turn pot handles inward to prevent spills
Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen
Clean grease buildup from stovetops regularly

Electrical Safety

Don't overload electrical outlets
Replace frayed or damaged cords immediately
Use surge protectors for electronics
Keep electrical appliances away from water
Have a licensed electrician inspect old wiring

Heating Safety

Keep space heaters 3 feet from anything flammable
Have chimneys and furnaces inspected annually
Never use a gas oven to heat your home
Turn off space heaters when leaving or sleeping
Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks

Escape Planning

Create a home fire escape plan with two ways out
Practice your escape plan twice a year
Designate a meeting place outside
Know how to call 911
Once out, stay out - never go back inside

Fire Extinguishers

Keep a fire extinguisher on every floor
Learn the PASS technique: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
Have extinguishers serviced annually
Only fight small, contained fires
Always have an escape route behind you

Request a Fire Safety Presentation

The Southold Fire Department offers free fire safety presentations for schools, community groups, and businesses. Contact us to schedule a presentation.