October marks Fire Safety Awareness Month—a timely reminder for Pittsburgh families to take stock of their home safety habits. Whether you’re settling into a new home in Center Township or prepping your Moon Township split-level for winter, these fire prevention tips can help protect what matters most.

Start with the Basics: Smoke Detectors Save Lives

• Test smoke detectors monthly.
• Replace expired units and swap batteries every spring and fall—think daylight saving time as your cue.
• Make sure detectors are installed on every floor and inside every bedroom.

 Stay Alert in the Kitchen

• Never leave cooking unattended, especially when frying or broiling.
• Keep flammable items like dish towels and cooking oil away from heat sources.
• Store a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and teach everyone in your household how to use it.

 Laundry Room Safety

• Clean your dryer lint trap after every load.
• Schedule an annual dryer vent cleaning—especially important in older Pittsburgh homes with longer vent runs.

 Electrical Awareness

• Avoid plugging multiple appliances into one outlet.
• Never "daisy-chain" extension cords or power strips—plug them directly into grounded outlets.
• Replace damaged cords immediately.

 Heating Season Prep

• Have your furnace, fireplace, and chimney professionally serviced each year.
• Keep space heaters away from curtains, bedding, and furniture.
• Store matches and lighters out of reach of children.

Surprising Tip: Potting Soil Can Burn

Dry potting soil is surprisingly flammable. Keep it moist and store it in a cool, dry place away from heat sources—especially if you're overwintering plants indoors.

 Plan Your Escape

Even with precautions, emergencies can happen. Create a fire escape plan and review it with your household twice a year. If your home has a second story, consider keeping an escape ladder in an accessible location.

Whether you're buying your first home in Monaca or settling into your long time family home in Aliquippa, fire safety is a smart way to protect your investment and your loved ones.