Many accidents in the home are caused by faulty, defective or improperly designed tools, appliances, and equipment. Government, non-governmental organizations, and industries cooperate to develop and implement standards for the safe design and manufacture of consumer products. This booklet provides information to help consumers select products, alerts them to potential hazards, and lists suggestions and procedures for the safe use of appliances and tools. It emphasizes points to consider in the purchase and use of electrical appliances and illustrates the proper procedures for using fuel burning (gas, propane, oil, wood, kerosene, and coal) appliances. Guidelines on the installation and care of household appliances such as electric blankets, irons, and vacuum cleaners are provided and the safe operation of potentially hazardous outdoor equipment such as snowblowers and lawnmowers is described. Special emphasis is placed on faulty heating equipment and the many potential sources of fires. (SM)