A safe home is more than just locked doors. From fire prevention to poison control, this checklist covers everything you need to protect your family.
Fire Safety
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Smoke detectors on every level
Inside each bedroom and outside sleeping areas. Test monthly.
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Carbon monoxide detectors
Near bedrooms and on each level. Essential if you have gas appliances.
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Fire extinguisher in kitchen
Class ABC extinguisher, know how to use it (PASS: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).
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Fire escape plan
Two ways out of every room. Practice with family twice a year.
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Dryer vent cleaned annually
Lint buildup is a leading cause of house fires.
Electrical Safety
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GFCI outlets in wet areas
Kitchens, bathrooms, garage, outdoor. Test monthly.
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AFCI breakers for bedrooms
Arc-fault protection prevents electrical fires.
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No overloaded outlets
Avoid daisy-chaining power strips. Use one per outlet.
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Cords in good condition
Replace any frayed or damaged cords immediately.
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Electrical panel labeled
Know which breaker controls each area of your home.
Water & Plumbing Safety
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Know your water shutoff location
Main shutoff and individual fixture shutoffs.
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Water heater at safe temperature
Set to 120°F to prevent scalding while saving energy.
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Water leak sensors installed
Near water heater, washing machine, under sinks.
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Sump pump tested
Pour water in pit to verify operation. Have battery backup.
Security
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All exterior doors have deadbolts
Use 3-inch screws in strike plates.
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Sliding doors secured
Use security bar and pins to prevent lifting.
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Exterior lighting adequate
Motion-sensor lights at all entrances.
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Windows lockable
All ground-floor windows have working locks.
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Garage door secure
Auto-reverse tested, code changed if moved in.
Child Safety
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Outlet covers installed
Use tamper-resistant outlets for permanent solution.
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Furniture anchored to walls
Dressers, bookcases, and TVs secured to prevent tip-overs.
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Stair gates installed
At top and bottom of stairs for young children.
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Blind cords secured
Use cordless blinds or cord cleats to prevent strangulation.
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Pool fenced and alarmed
4-foot fence with self-closing, self-latching gate.
Household Hazards
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Chemicals stored safely
Cleaning supplies and chemicals in locked cabinet.
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Medications secured
All medications out of reach or in locked container.
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Radon tested
Test your home; radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer.
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Lead paint assessed (older homes)
Homes built before 1978 may have lead paint.
Emergency Information
Post these numbers where everyone can see them:
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NestorAI helps you stay on top of safety maintenance:
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