Check the batteries in your smoke detectors often. Keep extra batteries on hand and replace them at least once per year.
Check the wiring. Have a professional electrician check for faulty wiring, especially if you own an older home.
Check your dryer hose. Lint build-up can cause overheating. Clean the hose and dryer annually. Hard or rigid-pipe is much safer than vinyl or aluminum foil exhaust tube.
Check your smoke detectors. Replace any that are 10 years or older.
Keep detectors away from heating and cooling ducts, and at least 6 inches from where walls and ceiling meet.
Keep fire extinguishers handy. Make sure there's at least 1 on each floor - especially near the kitchen, garage, laundry room, and workshop.
Maintain a safe fireplace and chimney. Clean the fireplace regularly and have the chimney cleaned and inspected annually.
Position detectors smartly. Place at least 1 smoke detector on every level of your house and near areas where you and your family sleep.
Talk with your family and make sure everyone knows what to do in case a fire breaks out. Create a fire safety plan, with a designated meeting place. Practice a home fire drill.