When summer arrives, families spend more time at home grilling, using fans and air conditioners, and enjoying outdoor activities. But with all that comes a greater risk of fire.
In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments responded to about 1.38 million fires in 2024, causing nearly $19 billion in damage. That’s a fire somewhere in the U.S. every 23 seconds.
The good news? Many of these fires can be prevented. This summer, here are a few things you can do to help protect your family and the things you’ve worked hard for:
One of the easiest ways to stay safe is to make sure your home has working smoke alarms. The American Red Cross recommends placing them on every level of your home and inside sleeping areas.
Test them once a month. It only takes a minute, but it can save your life. In a fire, you may have as little as two minutes to get out safely.
Summer heat means more use of fans, air conditioners, and electronics. That extra demand can put stress on your outlets.
Try not to plug too many things into one place. Avoid using multiple power strips together and check cords for damage. Small steps like this can help reduce the risk of electrical fires, which are a common cause of home damage.
Air conditioners work hard during the summer. If they aren’t cleaned or maintained, they can overheat.
Changing filters and making sure air can flow freely helps keep your system running safely. It also helps your home stay cool without added risk.
Cooking outdoors is part of summer fun, but it’s also a leading cause of fires.
The U.S. Fire Administration reminds families to always use grills outside, and keep them away from walls, railings, and anything that can burn. Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces should be placed at least 10 feet away from your home. And do not store or use a grill on a porch or balcony.
When it comes to fireworks, it’s safest to enjoy a professional public show instead of doing a DIY fireworks display at home.
*Based on location and coverage needs. Ask your agent for details.
Items like gasoline, lighter fluid, and cleaning supplies can become more dangerous in the heat.
Keep them in a cool, dry place and away from appliances or open flames. Never store them in direct sunlight or inside your home where heat can build up.
If you live in an area affected by wildfire smoke, keeping your indoor air clean is important.
The CDC suggests closing windows and doors and using a portable air cleaner if possible. This helps protect your family’s health, especially for children and older adults.
Those who live in areas prone to wildfires should know their community’s evacuation plans and have emergency supplies and an escape route ready just in case.
Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. That’s why it’s important to think ahead.
Take a moment to look around your home. Your furniture, clothes, electronics, and everyday items all add up. If they were damaged, would you be able to restore what was lost?
That’s where having extra protection in place can make a difference.
Kemper Life Contents/Fire Insurance provides cash to help repair and restore belongings if they’re damaged by events like fire or other disasters. It’s a smart way to help protect what you own and bring peace of mind - often for as little as $1 a day*.
A Simple Step Toward Protection
Protecting your family is about being ready for the unexpected. A Kemper Life agent can come to your home, sit down with you, and talk about options such as contents/fire insurance and other Kemper Life insurance solutions. Together, you can find coverage that fits your needs and your budget, so you can feel more confident knowing you did all you could to protect the people you love and the things that matter most.
*Based on your location and need. Ask your agent for more information. Not all benefits are available in all states.
Property and Casualty insurance provided by: United Casualty Insurance Company of America, Old Reliable Casualty Company, Mutual Savings Fire Insurance Company, Union National Fire Insurance Company, Commonwealth Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and Capitol County Mutual Fire Insurance Company in the states where each company is licensed and offering coverage. Each company has sole financial responsibility for its own products. Home Office: Chesterfield, Missouri. All insurance products are subject to state availability, issue limitations and contractual terms and conditions. This coverage does not include your actual dwelling. Optional: Please contact your agent or nearest district office for more information.