Use this checklist to inspect your house for possible fire dangers.

1. Are matches and lighters out of children's reach?

2. Are portable space heaters kept away from curtains, furniture and normal traffic patterns?  Portable kerosene heaters are prohibited for home use in California.  Has all your heating equipment been checked and cleaned this year?

3. Are there adequate outlets to avoid the need for multiple cords?  Avoid placing extension cords under rugs, over hooks, or through partitions and door openings.  Do you have special electrical outlet covers to protect young children?

4. Do you check to make sure there are no burning cigarettes under cushions before going to bed?

5. Do you have a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from flying?

6. Do you have the proper sized fuses or circuit breakers for your household?

7. Is your water heater turned down to around 120°-125°?  High settings will cause serious burns in seconds.

8. Do you have gasoline stored in a strong metal can with self-closing cap on the openings?  Is it stored away from flames and all heating sources, including the water heater pilot light?

9. Is your garage free from rubbish, oil rags, flammable liquids, large stacks of paper, and kept in an orderly manner?

10. Are all paint, varnish and other flammable liquids stored tightly closed metal containers and placed away from all heat and ignition sources?

11. Are your kitchen stove, oven, broiler and exhaust fan kept clean of grease?  If a grease fire does occur, smother the flames with the pan lid - never throw water on a grease fire!  Remember to turn pot handles toward the back of the stove - out of children's reach.

12. Do you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen near the exit?  Is it easily accessible and ABC rated?  Do you know how to use it?

13. Are there one or more smoke detectors placed properly through the house, especially by the bedrooms?  Are they in good working order and tested monthly?

14. Is all large native shrubbery cut back 30 to 100 feet from your home?  (Check local regulations.)

15. Do you use your barbeque grill at least 10 feet away from your house?  Remember, never use gasoline or apply lighter fluid to recently lit coals.

16. Do you have a family escape plan drawn up and practiced?  Suggestion: Practice your plan and test your smoke detectors at the same time.

17. Have you considered installing residential fire sprinklers to protect your family?