Whatever you call it -- the den, family room, or living room -- it's the room when your family most often congregates. And it has dangers of it's own.

For safety's sake:

- Put extension cords away from areas where they can be stepped on or tripped over -- they'll fray and spark or overheat and smolder.
- Check all appliances and extension cords for frayed or exposed wires.
- Cap unused outlets.
- Make sure candles are extinguished before bedtime. Don't leave candles unattended.
- Ensure a carbon monoxide detector is on the same level of the house as the family room.
- Remember that extension cords are temporary -- don't use them as permanent fixtures or they'll overheat and smolder.
- Use surge protectors for the stereo, television, and computer.
- Use only the appropriate size and type light bulb for lamps.
- Touch outlets or switches to see if they are unusually warm or hot. If so, unplug everything from them and call your electrician.
- Keep window areas free of furniture and dangling cords if you have young children in the home -- they pose fall and choking hazards.
- Avoid putting a space heater in high-traffic areas, such as doorways or stairways, or near upholstery and drapes.
- Double-check upholstery on which people have smoked for hot embers, ashes, matches, and butts, especially before you go to bed at night.
- Empty ashtrays often, and fill them with water before dumping them into trash cans.