Signs that your dryer is about to catch fire include a burning smell or the dryer and the clothes getting hotter than usual. If this happens, turn the dryer off immediately and call a repair professional. Another less urgent sign is that your clothes are taking longer to dry than normal. If this is the case, check the lint trap, vent, and duct to make sure they are all clean. If they are, you may need to call a pro to find the source of the issue.

If a storm or other natural disaster occurs in your area, you may not have immediate access to help. According to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency, keep a disaster preparedness kit in your home with enough essentials to sustain your family for at least 72 hours. Put this in an easily accessible location to have it handy in case anything unthinkable happens.

The NFPA model codes and International Residential Code (IRC) mandate that all new one- and two-family homes have fire sprinkler systems. However, all municipalities are different. The best way to determine if your municipality requires fire sprinklers is to contact your state fire marshal’s office. One reason to install a fire sprinkler system is that it’s the first line of defense in putting out a fire and alerting your family of emergencies.

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning on a propane heater, make sure that your heater is suitable for indoor use. When you run the heater, it should always be in a well-ventilated area with proper air circulation. Installing carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home is also essential. If you have any questions about using a heater indoors, contact a local heating and oil company for more information.