Abstract: Disclosed herein is a fire safety and prevention method, system and apparatus for preventing flammable fumes or vapors from entering into the pilot light or flame area of a gas hot water or other type of heater and igniting into a fire, which is easily installed at low cost and without special expertise.The preferred embodiment is a simple metallic or similar cylinder placed around the heater, with appropriate vapor-tight seals, which will prevent flammable vapors moving near the floor from entering the heating area and igniting.Also disclosed is a method, system, apparatus and method to incorporate this safety feature into the manufacture of new gas hot water and other heaters.