As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, October brings more than just cozy nights and pumpkin-scented candles — it’s also Fire Safety Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and helping homeowners protect their homes and loved ones. At The Paula McDaniel Group, we know how much care and effort goes into finding the perfect home. That’s why we’re passionate about sharing practical safety reminders to help our clients and community keep their homes safe year-round.
Why Fire Safety Month Matters
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments respond to a home fire every 88 seconds. Many of these incidents are preventable, which makes awareness and preparation especially important. In the Chattanooga area, cooler weather means fireplaces, space heaters, and candles are used more frequently — and with that comes a higher risk of household fires. Taking a few proactive steps this fall can help protect your family, your property, and your peace of mind.
How to Keep Your Home Safe
Start with the basics: make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly. They should be installed on every level of your home and inside each bedroom. Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year.
If you’re using space heaters, give them plenty of breathing room — at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire, such as curtains, furniture, or bedding. Never leave a heater running when you leave the room or go to sleep.
Electrical safety is another key component of fire prevention. Take time to inspect your cords and outlets for frays or signs of wear. Replace any damaged cords immediately and avoid overloading your outlets. A quick inspection now could prevent a costly and dangerous fire later.
Cooking-related fires are the leading cause of home fire emergencies, so extra caution in the kitchen is essential. Keep oven mitts, dish towels, and paper towels away from the stove, and never leave food cooking unattended. It’s also smart to keep a fire blanket or small extinguisher nearby — it’s a simple tool that can make a big difference in an emergency.
Finally, every household should have a fire escape plan. Sit down with your family and discuss at least two ways out of every room, then practice your plan regularly. Knowing exactly what to do can save precious seconds when they matter most.
Building Safer Homes and Stronger Communities
Preventing future fires starts with creating habits that prioritize safety. Schedule annual inspections for your chimney and HVAC system, unplug small appliances when not in use, and always extinguish candles before leaving a room. Even the smallest actions can have a major impact in protecting your home.
At The Paula McDaniel Group, we believe that being a homeowner is about more than owning a property — it’s about caring for it and creating a safe haven for the people you love. From helping families find their dream home to sharing practical homeownership advice, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or relocating to the Chattanooga area, we’d love to help you make your next move a seamless and safe one.
🏡 Stay Safe. Stay Connected.
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