Home fires can happen quickly, destroying lives and property, but unlike other disasters, most home fires can be prevented. Read on to learn 4 unexpected home fire dangers.
Having old smoke alarms
An effective smoke alarm can make much difference when it comes to surviving a house fire. It’s not enough to change the batteries twice a year, you also need to replace your alarms every decade. “You should test your smoke alarms every month,” says Lorraine Carli, vice president of the National Fire Protection Association. “But also don’t forget to check the dates and replace an alarm that is more than 10 years old.”
Leaving the kitchen while you cook
One in five Americans admitted leaving food cooking unattended on the stove, found an American Red Cross survey. Walking away from food cooking in the kitchen is a serious fire risk. “The leading cause of home fires is cooking, and the leading cause of those fires is unattended cooking,” says Carli. “If you need to use the stove or oven, be sure to keep an eye on it.”
Turning the heat too high when you cook
Turning up the heat too high can be deadly, even if you’re in the kitchen while you cook. Kevin Kelley, senior director of the American Red Cross, recommends paying close attention and turning off the burner if you see smoke or grease(油脂) starting to boil while frying food.
Having a dirty stove while you cook
If your stove is covered with grease, a small kitchen fire can get out of hand quickly. Clean and clear the area around the stove before turning on the heat, or the result will be dangerous.
【小题1】How long should you have a new smoke alarm?| A．2 years. | B．10 years. |
| C．12 years. | D．8 years. |
| A．Having a dirty stove. | B．Turning the heat too high. |
| C．Having an old alarm. | D．Walking away from food cooking. |
| A．Unexpected home fire dangers can’t be prevented. |
| B．It is advisable to replace your alarms every month. |
| C．Having a dirty stove is dangerous while you cook. |
| D．Kevin Kelley suggests paying no attention to cooking. |
