Fire... It can be fascinating. It can be life-saving. It can be devastating.

Americans underestimate their risk of fire, a new survey from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has found. Choosing from a list of disasters, 31 percent of those surveyed said they felt most at risk for tornado, while only 27 percent named fire as the highest risk, followed by hurricane (14 percent), earthquake (9 percent), flood (9 percent) and terrorist attack (5 percent).

New data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) show that candles are becoming an increasingly prevalent cause of home fires. Candles started fires in 18,000 homes in 2001, a 15 percent rise from 2000, and more than triple the number in 1990.

What can you do make sure you and your family stay safe?

Here are the top ten fire safety tips...

1. Smoke alarms save lives - install and maintain them.
2. Smoking and drinking are a lethal combination. Smoking carelessness is a leading cause of fire. Don't empty ashtrays into the trash.
3. Keep matches, lighters, and candles away from children.
4. Be careful with candles. Don't leave them unattended. Never sleep with candles burning.
5. Remove electrical cords from under rugs and behind radiators. Never nail or staple the cord to walls or molding.
6. Never overload outlets and extension cords.
7. Never put a portable space heater near drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials.
8. Move flammable liquids stored near the stove or other heat source to a safe, distant location.
9. Remove all materials on or near your stove that could catch fire, including paper, dishcloths, etc.
10. Early notification can make all the difference - in case of fire, call 911.

For other fire safety tips, go to National Fire Protection Association website