Fire Prevention

It's Fire Prevention Week.

Do you know how to stay safe using hot tools on your hair? Here are a few tips to help keep you mindful of the precautions we need to take to stay safe.

* Hair straighteners and curling irons are responsible for many fires when handled carelessly. Never leave them unattended when hot.

* Make certain to not leave them in your hair too long. They can burn your hair to the point of being a frizzy mess or even worse, break off. * Be sure to keep them away from flammable objects like towels and curtains, and even your plastic sink. Always check what is near them. The cords can cause them to pivot and heat up anything close to them. * Double check to ensure you turned it off and unplugged it after use. While it's a good idea to turn them off, it's a better idea to unplug them. Even when they are turned off, electricity will still travel to them. There is always a possibility of them turning on somehow. I've seen crazier things happen. * Replace worn out appliances. If you notice sparking, and unusual smell, or overheating, it's time for a new one. I've replaced several hairdryers because they started smoking while I was using them. * Watch for frayed cords. Cords that get stepped on, snagged, or rubbed can become an electrical hazard. Even when turned off, the electricity running through a frayed cord can cause a fire. Another good reason to unplug them. * Clean the dust from the filter on your blow dryer. Buildup of dust can cause the dryer to overheat and catch fire.

I have had blow dryers overheat and start to smoke as well as leaving curling irons or straighteners on after I'm finished with them. Be sure to keep them unplugged when not in use and keep them in a safe place when you are using them. I've also had a client that had a curling iron overheat and burn her hair off near the scalp. The thermostat in the curling iron failed and caused it to heat past a safe temperature. Please do your part to stay safe.