Most people consider their homes to be the places in which they feel the safest and most comfortable. However, it takes some diligence to maintain the security of a home and protect it from fires. There are more than 354,000 house fires each year, resulting in injuries, loss of life, property damage, and homeowners insurance claims. Here’s how to safeguard your home and family by minimizing fire risk.

How to Prepare for & Prevent Fires

The first step to preparation and prevention is to install smoke alarms in every room. Most homeowners insurance policies require property owners to install a minimum number of alarms.

Test an alarm every month by simply pressing the "test" button on the face of the device. Replace the batteries annually and get new smoke alarms every eight to 10 years.

Next, have a plan in place for your family. Have a family meeting and discuss what to do during a fire. Identify at least two ways out of every room in the home.

Ensure all household members know how to unlock and open windows and remove screens. Designate a specific meeting place away from the home where you can all gather after escaping the fire.

Also, actively practice fire prevention in your day-to-day life. Don't leave food cooking unattended, and keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Use space heaters with caution, keeping them away from curtains, carpeting, and other flammables.

Make sure all candles are snuffed out before going to sleep. If you smoke, do so outside and dispose of butts in a coffee can filled with water.

What to Do During a Fire

When you first smell smoke, follow the stop, drop, and crawl rule. Stop whatever you're doing and get down on your knees to avoid smoke inhalation. Smoke naturally rises, so the air closest to the floor will be more breathable.

Crawl to the nearest safe exit. If a door or doorknob is hot to the touch, try to find another way out of the room, like a window. If you can't get out of a room, cover vents and the crack under the door with towels or blankets, go to the window, and use a flashlight or bright cloth to signal for help.

If you have your phone on you, call 911. Once all family members and pets have gotten out and are accounted for, get checked out by paramedics and contact your homeowners insurance provider to file a claim.

These insights can prevent a fire from endangering your home and family. A homeowners insurance policy from Pella Mutual Insurance Company in Marion, WI, will help you cover the costs of fire- and smoke-related damage. They’ve been in business since 1876 and offer home, farm, business, and rental insurance plans. Call (715) 754-5039 or visit them online to request a quote.