Household Safety Checklist Use this checklist to ensure that your family, home, and property are protected in case of an emergency. Check off each item as it’s completed.
FIRE	ELECTRIC
Install and test smoke detectors & carbon monoxide detectors as recommended.	Clean all electrical appliances according to manufacturer recommendations.
Change smoke alarm batteries every year unless they have a long-life battery. Replace smoke alarms every ten years.	Sign up for alerts from local weather stations in the event of a weather emergency.
Prepare a fire escape plan and practice drills with the entire family.	Place flashlights and backup batteries in nightstands and other areas of the home.
Keep furniture, curtains, dish towels, and flammable materials at least three feet from any heat source.	check electrical sources for needed repairs
Use a fireproof and waterproof safe for your valuables.	Replace outlet covers if they are damaged or missing.
Place fire extinguishers in the home; inspect and learn how to use them as recommended.	Install ground circuit interrupters near water areas such as the kitchen, bath, laundry, and garage.
Assemble a disaster kit, store it in a safe place and refill it every 6 months if needed.	Keep small appliances away from water sources.
Place an escape ladder near any window or balcony above ground level.	Don’t overload outlets with too many electrical plugs.
Place fire starter items in a safe place and away from open flames such as lighters, stovetops, and candles.	Check all cords and wiring for damage.
Store chemicals and flammables safely, away from open flames and out of reach of children. Read all labels before using them and become familiar with warnings and safe disposal recommendations.

GAS	PLUMBING & WATER
Clean and inspect gas appliances according to manufacturer recommendations.	Look for signs of water damage in the attic, basement, and crawl spaces.
Follow gas leak warning steps if you smell gas (a rotten egg or sulfur odor)	Check faucets, toilets, hose bibs, and shutoff valves for leaks.
Do NOT turn anything on or off that has a power source.	Check the sprinkler system for leaks.
Leave the home immediately.	Clean and inspect your dehumidifier.
Call 911 once you are outside, not from the home telephone.	Set the water temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or lower for burn prevention. Use child safety or anti-scald devices on hot water faucets where needed.
Have a professional check your water pressure and look for signs of leaks or poorly conditioned pipes.
Never pour chemicals down the drain. Dispose of chemicals as recommended on the label.
Don’t pour grease down the drain. Allow it to cool in a heat-tolerant container, then throw it in the trash.

Garage	GROUNDS & STRUCTURE
Store tools and sharp equipment properly to prevent injury.	Inspect windows, doors, walls, and foundations for cracks or damage.
Place all chemicals and gasoline away from open flames. Drain equipment when not in use. Clean spills immediately.	Inspect and repair the attic for water damage, electrical damage, and loose wires. Insulate where needed for energy savings.
Use safety control buttons to lock equipment. Inspect equipment for proper function and loose parts.	Eliminate standing water from your property to avoid attracting unwanted bugs and animals.
Store ladders away from children’s reach.	Trim bushes, shrubs, and trees regularly.
Store items that may be harmful to children, such as batteries, small items, cords, or hose, out of reach.	Remove leaves, debris, and roots from gutters, vents, and outdoor heating and air conditioning units.
Include the garage in your home’s alarm monitoring system	Call professionals for pest and termite control.
Use the lock on your garage door opener to prevent other remotes from opening it.	Install a fence with a locking gate around swimming pools.
Consider installing a garage door opener cover to keep small children from opening the door.	Inspect and repair decks, stairs, railings, roof, chimney, downspouts, drains, gutters, and flashing.
PRACTICE CAR SAFETY IN THE GARAGE	Inspect the basement and crawl spaces for water damage, mold, and mildew.
Keep valuables and harmful products out of the car such as medicines, firearms, and choking hazards.
Keep the car locked while in the garage to keep small children out of it.
Keep car keys stored in a safe place, out of the reach of children.
Hide extra keys to your car and home in the garage or give them to a trusted family member or neighbor.