Fire Prevention Tips Keep Renters Safe

Every 20 seconds in the U.S., a fire department responds to a fire in the U.S., according to statistics from the National Fire Protection Association. But many of us rarely -- or maybe never -- think about preparing for a fire, or what we could do to prevent one.

For renters, the added risks are assuming the landlord has taken care of potential hazards and being unable to control the behavior of neighbors. On the flip side, some fire safety experts point out a transient lifestyle of moving in and out of apartments may also help keep you more vigilant about fire prevention. That is, if you follow the recommended guidelines each and every time you move into a new pad.

From containing a disaster in the kitchen to the truth about auto-off appliances to who is responsible for a chimney, here's a refresher on some key fire prevention tips to keep you and your place safer now -- as well as when you move next.