Fire safety isn’t seasonal — it’s essential. Whether you live in a classic brick colonial in Squirrel Hill or a cozy ranch in Ross Township, taking a few preventative steps can help protect your home and loved ones from fire-related emergencies.
Here are some smart, easy-to-implement tips every Pittsburgh homeowner should keep in mind:
Check Your Smoke Detectors
Test them monthly, replace expired units, and swap out batteries every spring and fall. Make sure there’s a detector on every floor and in every bedroom — especially in older homes where layouts vary.
Stay Present While Cooking or Using Candles
Unattended flames are a leading cause of house fires. Whether you’re prepping pierogies in your South Hills kitchen or winding down with a candlelit bath, stay alert.
Keep Flammables Away From Heat Sources
Store cooking oils, cleaning products, and other combustibles safely away from stoves, radiators, and space heaters — especially in tight city kitchens.
Equip Your Kitchen With a Fire Extinguisher
And make sure everyone in your household knows how to use it. It’s a must-have in any Pittsburgh home, from high-rise condos to century-old farmhouses.
Clean Your Dryer Regularly
Empty the lint trap after every load and have your dryer vent professionally cleaned at least once a year. This is especially important in homes with basement laundry setups.
Be Smart With Outlets and Cords
Avoid overloading outlets, and never daisy-chain extension cords or power strips. Replace damaged cords immediately — a common issue in older Pittsburgh properties.
Service Heating Systems Annually
This includes furnaces, fireplaces, and chimneys. With our cold winters, it’s crucial to have these systems inspected and cleaned before the season kicks in.
Keep Matches and Lighters Out of Reach
Especially if you have children in the home — or curious pets.
Watch Out for Potting Soil
Dry potting mix can be surprisingly flammable. Keep it moist and store it in a cool, dry place away from heat sources — especially in sunrooms or enclosed porches.
Have a Fire Escape Plan
Even with precautions in place, emergencies can happen. Review your escape plan with your household twice a year, and consider keeping an escape ladder in upper-level bedrooms — a smart move for Pittsburgh’s many multi-story homes.
Fire safety starts with awareness and ends with action. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or tucked into a quiet cul-de-sac, these steps can help keep your Pittsburgh home safe and sound.