The City of Columbus Fire Department is always thinking about fire safety and suggests citizens do the same. Most fires can be prevented! For some tips on how to make your home more firesafe, check out these Fire Safety Tips provided by the U.S. Fire Administration, a department of Homeland Security.

October is Fire Prevention Month. The annual initiative sponsored by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) sets the stage for the delivery of important messages on fire and life safety. These messages include changing the batteries in your smoke detectors every time you change your clocks for daylight savings; never leaving cooking, smoking materials or candles unattended; using heating and electrical equipment safely; teaching children not to play with matches and lighters; and planning home evacuation routes.

In addition, we want citizens to be reminded that fire safety doesn't end in October. The holidays are another time to be fire safe. Remember to avoid putting candles too close to Christmas Trees and other decorations as well as keeping your fireplaces and wood stoves working properly by routine chimney cleanings.