The Fire Departments of Kasson & Mantorville urge residents of their respective communities and rural fire districts to take steps to prevent home fires

A fire at home can occur in just about any room of the house and even outdoors. While one can't account for natural disasters or other unforseen problems, there are many steps homeowners can take to prevent fires.

• Check the cords on all appliances and electronics. Replace any frayed or damaged cords or wires.

• Do not overload outlets or rely heavily on multi-plug power strips.

• Keep cords out of the reach of children and pets.

• When cooking in the kitchen, always be present while food is on the stove or in the oven. Flare-ups can occur at a moment's notice.

• Don't store items over the stove. They can fall and ignite.

• Turn pot handles so that children can't reach them and pull them over, risking burns.

• Be sure appliance vents have room to "breathe."

• Have the chimney checked and cleaned regularly.

• Use a metal or glass fireplace screen to block embers.

• Limit the use of portable space heaters around the home.

• Use extreme caution with cigarettes and ashtrays. Empty them frequently when signs of heat and burning are gone.

• Use light bulbs that are at the recommended wattage for a fixture.

• Don't place any electrical items by water in the bathroom.

• Store flammable materials in a locked metal container in the basement or garage.

• Service the furnace and hot water heater on a regular basis.

• Do not store items too close to the furnace.

• Be sure every level of the home is equipped with working smoke detectors.

• Keep one or two fire extinguishers charged and at the ready.

There will be a special guest at the Kasson Fire Department open house Wednesday, October 12 from 6-8 p.m. “Flash the Fire Dog” will be on hand. He will be a special guest of Johannes Marsland, owner of Vigilant Fire Protection of Kasson.