TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Everyday household habits can make all the difference when it comes to preventing devastating structure fires, according to Tucson firefighter Jake Connor, who joined Tucson Now’s Makayla Goos for an update on fire safety.
Connor emphasizes that kitchen safety is the first line of defense: never leave cooking unattended, keep flammable items away from stovetops and heaters, and extinguish smoking materials properly rather than smoking in bed. With modern electronics and appliances, officials also urge residents to plug large units directly into wall outlets, limit extension cord use, regularly clean dryer lint filters, and charge electric scooters and bikes outside away from the structure.
When a fire does spark, proper home preparation dramatically increases your family’s odds of survival. Working smoke detectors and accessible fire extinguishers are critical, but simple nighttime routines also save lives—such as sleeping with bedroom doors shut to slow the spread of smoke and heat. Connor also stresses keeping hallways and exits completely clear, warning that heavy smoke creates pitch-black conditions where even familiar pathways become nearly impossible to navigate…