Every year, thousands of residential fires break out in California homes. Many of these fires start in kitchens, garages, or living areas and can spread rapidly before firefighters are able to arrive.

Yet in many homes, there is no immediate way to stop a fire in its early moments. A simple fire extinguisher costing as little as $20-$40 can stop small fires before they turn into life-threatening emergencies. Fire extinguishers are already required in many workplaces, apartment buildings, and commercial spaces because they save lives and prevent property damage.

Despite California's high risk of fire and frequent wildfires, most single-family homes are not required to have a fire extinguisher. This petition calls on California State Senators and Assemblymembers to consider legislation requiring at least one properly rated fire extinguisher in residential homes across California.

 A residential fire extinguisher requirement could:

Help residents stop small fires before they spread

Reduce injuries and loss of life

Protect homes and communities

Reduce strain on emergency services

This policy could be implemented in practical ways such as requiring extinguishers in new construction, rental properties, or during home sales ensuring residents have access to a basic fire safety tool. As a California resident, I’ve seen how often fires occur in our communities, whether from cooking accidents, electrical issues, or wildfires spreading into residential areas. Small fires can grow out of control in minutes, but in many cases they could be stopped early if a fire extinguisher is available and used quickly. My goal with this petition is simply to encourage discussion about improving basic fire safety in homes. As mentioned previously, fire extinguishers are already required in many workplaces and commercial spaces because they can prevent small fires from becoming major emergencies. Expanding this basic safety measure to homes could help protect families, property, and communities across California. 

California families deserve every possible safeguard against preventable house fires.

We respectfully ask our State Senators and Assemblymembers to review this proposal and consider introducing legislation to strengthen residential fire safety throughout California.

Sign this petition to support a simple, common-sense safety measure that could help save lives and protect homes in California.