I confess, I rarely think about the smoke detectors in my home–actually, I probably only think about them when my cooking sets them off!  But two recent events have me thinking about them today:  a friend’s scare with a chimney fire and a visit to the pediatrician, who said that she urges parents to change smoke detector batteries each year on their child’s birthday (a date that is sure to be remembered).

Besides making sure that your household is equipped with functioning smoke detectors (with fresh batteries), the U.S. Fire Administration reminds people (with or without children living in the household) to:

          * Plan escape plans and practice them

          * Teach everyone in your family when and how to call for help (i.e. emergency numbers)

          * Keep a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it

          * Install carbon monoxide detectors (note:  you may be able to buy smoke/carbon monoxide combo units). 

For additional fire safety tips and resources, check out the U.S. Fire Administration’s Web Site. 

For a great selection of child home safety products, including stove guards, stove knob covers, and fireplace guards, pop on over to baby-Wise.com.  When it comes to child safety, peace of mind is priceless.