Tennesseans’ largest fire hazards lurk in plain sight

Nashville – Governor Phil Bredesen has designated October as Fire Prevention Month, and the State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding Tennesseans to regularly check their homes for hazards that could lead to fires.

“Tennessee occupies an undesirable ranking in the country for fire deaths. Falling asleep while smoking in bed or in a comfortable chair remains a significant cause of fire deaths in Tennessee,” says Department of Commerce and Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Leslie A. Newman. “If you smoke, make sure your home’s smoke detectors are functioning properly.”

Clarksville firefighters swap out at a structure fire in Lincoln Home

Tennessee residents should avoid other practices in the home that quickly become hazardous:

• keeping space heaters too close to bedding or drapes,
• burning candles or incense near flammable materials,
• using frayed cables, extension cords or holiday lighting sets, overloading wall outlets and surge protectors, and
• improperly storing or disposing of chemicals.

Newman urges Tennessee families to practice their home escape plan this month. “Having an established escape route is one of the most important things Tennessee families can do. We encourage them to rehearse it routinely – not just in October but all year.” Residents also should replace smoke alarms’ batteries when adjusting clocks for daylight saving time. They can do that on November 1, when clocks are set back an hour this year.

About the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance

For further information, contact 615-741-2981 or visit www.tn.gov/commerce/sfm ^[1]. The Department of Commerce and Insurance works to protect consumers while ensuring fair competition for industries and professionals who do business in Tennessee. www.tn.gov/commerce/ ^[2]