Leaving the stove unattended, overloading power strips, charging on bedding, crowding a space heater, and skipping dryer lint cleaning can all increase home fire risk. Use this checklist to identify the unsafe condition and make a practical change to your daily routine.
Five examples selected for household awareness; this list is not a statistical ranking of fire causes.
Leaving the stove unattended
Oil and food can overheat while your attention is elsewhere. [1]
- Stay in the kitchen while frying, boiling, grilling or broiling.
- Need to leave? Switch the burner off first.
- Keep towels, packaging and wooden utensils away from the stovetop.
Reminder: Grease fire? Never add water. If you feel unsafe, get out and call 911.
Overloading a power strip
Extra sockets do not mean extra electrical capacity. [2]
- Check the load. Keep connected devices within the strip's rating.
- Use a wall outlet for space heaters. Never use a strip or extension cord.
- Skip the chain. Never plug one power strip into another.
Reminder: Loose plugs or damaged cords? Stop using that equipment.
Charging a phone on the bed
Bedding can trap charging heat and block airflow. [3]
- Choose a hard, flat spot. Use a clear table instead of a bed or couch.
- Keep it uncovered. No pillows or blankets over the device or charger.
- Match the charger. Use the original or a manufacturer-approved replacement.
Reminder: Unusual heat, swelling or odor? Stop using the device.
Placing combustibles too close to a space heater
Nearby fabric can ignite even without touching the heater. [4]
- Leave at least 3 feet. Keep blankets, curtains and furniture clear.
- Use a stable, level surface. Keep the heater away from foot traffic.
- Turn it off. Switch it off before leaving the room or going to sleep.
Reminder: Plug directly into a wall outlet. Follow the heater's instructions.
Skipping the dryer lint filter
Lint buildup can block airflow and fuel a dryer fire. [5]
- Every load: Remove lint before and after the cycle.
- For a vented dryer: Keep the exhaust duct clear and uncrushed.
- For a vented dryer: The outside vent flap should open while the dryer runs.
Reminder: Never run without the filter. Arrange professional servicing when needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can a power strip make a space heater safe to use?
No. Plug a space heater directly into a wall outlet and follow its instructions. Extra sockets do not increase the circuit's capacity, and a surge protector is not a substitute for safe loading.
How far should a space heater be from furniture and curtains?
Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet from the heater. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and turn it off before leaving the room or going to sleep.
How often should I clean my dryer's lint filter?
Clean it before and after each cycle. For a vented dryer, also check that the exhaust duct is not crushed or blocked and that the outside vent opens during operation. Follow the manual for your dryer type.
Related safety guides
Sources and further reading
Reviewed September 12, 2026. Follow your equipment instructions and local disposal requirements. Manufacturer manuals below are model examples; apply the instructions for your own device.
NFPA reference
For the cooking section, review NFPA's guidance on staying with the stove, keeping combustibles clear, and leaving safely if a fire is beyond your control.
