With its density of wood-framed houses and propensity for shaking, San Francisco is a smart place to exercise fire safety. What can you do to make your own home as secure as possible?

• First and foremost, install and regularly test smoke detectors! Installation of these devices is the single most effective measure you can take towards protecting you and your family from injury or death in a fire.
  
  
• Immediately inspect and repair any frayed wires or other problems with your electrical circuitry.
  
  
• Always unplug appliances that do not need to be kept continuously running, such as toasters and hairdryers.
  
  
• Never leave your stove or oven unattended.
  
  
• Be extremely careful when operating electric space heaters. Read all directions, keep devices securely upright, clear of flammable materials, and never leave them unattended.
  
  
• Do not leave appliances, like the dishwasher, washing machine or clothes dryer running while you are out of the house. Remember to clean your dryer’s lint screen after each load and thoroughly clean the outside dryer vent once a year.
  
  
• Keep fire extinguishers available in areas where a fire would be likely to break out, such as the kitchen, garage and basement. (Don’t forget to read the directions so that you actually know how to use and maintain these devices!)