Tips for the garage

• Never store gasoline, paints or flammable liquids in your home.
• Store gasoline outside your home or in a detached garage or shed in a well-ventilated area, and keep it stored in an approved container. Use it only as a motor fuel, never as a cleaning agent.
• Store paint and other flammable liquids (turpentine, mineral spirits, varnishes, camp stove fuels, etc.) in their original containers with tight fitting lids. Store away from appliances, heaters, pilot lights and other sources of flame or heat.
• Remember: never smoke near flammable liquids.
• Always store propane cylinders outside.
• Remove all trash from your house.  Never store trash near your furnace or heater.

The Charlotte Fire Department's Public Fire and Life Safety Division will be glad to help citizens who have questions about potential fire hazards in their homes. To speak to a fire professional, call 704-336-3970 during normal business hours.