i always wired everything up "to code" my grandfather was an electrician and i am a contactor so i know how to wire things correctly.

tips to lessen fire hazards:

smoke alarms
all connections inside boxes
use wirenuts and electrical tape
smoke alarms
change extension cords every 12months
don't max out 1 circuit(try to split everything between 2 circuits)
smoke alarms
use the proper ballast
check ALL electrical equipment regularly
smoke alarms