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No, you should never leave a fireplace burning overnight or unattended during the day. While fireplaces are made to contain fires, fires can and do spread from fireplaces, so it’s crucial that you’re there to monitor them and put them out if needed. If you’re worried about putting out a fire before bed, stop feeding it fuel long before bedtime and actively put out the fire using your poker, a shovel, and some baking soda.

Yes, fire extinguishers eventually expire. However, the good news is that a properly stored fire extinguisher can last a decade or longer. They don’t have an expiration date on the canister, but you can check the manufacturing date on the “UL” nameplate near the classification information. Maintenance will also give your fire extinguisher longevity. Check the gauge at the top of the extinguisher every month. You'll want to make sure the gauge needle is in the green section, and if a hose or nozzle has been used or damaged, you need to replace it.

Yes, splicing wires can cause a fire if the splicing is done incorrectly. This is why splicing wires is a task best handled by electricians. One of the most common mistakes made when splicing wires is not using a wire connector. Without a wire connector, electricity flows unsheathed and can result in a home electrical fire.

Start by checking the top or side edge of the door. Look for a certification label or metal tag stamped with details like the fire rating and information on the manufacturer. Even if it’s painted over, the tag should still be visible. Next, look along the edges for slim intumescent strips. They’re designed to swell up and seal gaps when exposed to heat. Finally, check if the door closes itself. Most fire doors have a self-closing mechanism, like an overhead closer or spring hinges. If none of these are obvious, contact a fire safety professional to help verify your door.