The New Year is always a good time to check your home for potential fire hazards. Each year home fire claims the lives of nearly 5,000 Americans. Tens of thousands more suffer injury from burns and smoke inhalation. Many home fires can be prevented. Equipped with knowledge of the causes of home fires, you have the power to avert possible disasters. A thorough inspection of your home can reveal fire hazards before it is too late.

The leading cause of home fires is the misuse or improper installation or maintenance of heating equipment such as fireplaces, portable heaters, wood stoves and chimneys. Portable heaters and wood or coal stoves must be located at least three feet from combustibles, such as clothes, furniture and newspapers. A fireplace screen can prevent sparks and embers from leaving the fire chamber and igniting furnishings.

More fire deaths result from the careless use of cigarettes, cigars and pipes than any other single cause. Smokers should exercise extreme caution in the use and placement of smoking paraphernalia. Matches and lighters should always be kept out of the reach of children. A lighted cigarette can smolder unnoticed for hours in upholstered furniture before bursting into fame. Use large, securely placed ashtrays and never smoke in bed.

Be sure that electric outlets are not overloaded. Electrical cords and plugs should be replaced if cracked or frayed and they should never be placed under rugs or across doorways.

The National Fire Protection Association reports that cooking fires cause more injuries than any other type of home fire. In the kitchen, keep the stove free of grease. Refrain from wearing clothing with loose sleeves that could come in contact with cooking flames. never leave cooking unattended.

Most of all, remember that smoke detectors save lives. I urge Hempstead town residents to install smoke detection devices throughout their homes. Detectors should be placed outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home near the living areas, where most fires start. In the basement, a detector should be placed at the bottom of the stairway or doorway. Check frequently to ensure that they are operational.

Please take the time to check your home now in order to enjoy a happy, healthy and safe year.