Did you know?
In general, a working smoke detector is not present in 2/3 of the residential fires in which a person is injured or killed.
Smoke Detectors
- At least one smoke detector should be installed outside every bedroom and on every level of your home.
- Check the batteries and operation of the unit monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year.
Did you know?
Fire strikes a home in the United States about every minute. Approximately 80% of all fire deaths occur in the home.
Fire Extinguishers
There are different types of fire extinguishers available:
- Class A: Ordinary combustibles like paper or wood.
- Class B: Flammable liquids such as oil, gas and oil-based paint.
- Class C: Energized electrical equipment such as wiring, circuit breakers and appliances.
- Some types of extinguishers fight all classes of fire and some just one type. Make sure you buy an extinguisher that meets your needs and one you can operate easily.
- Learn how to use your extinguisher. Follow manufacturer instructions on use and care.
- Before you attempt to fight a fire, make sure that no one is at risk if you do. Everyone should leave the building; the fire should be small and not spreading and make sure your back is to your exit you must have an escape route from the building.
- Install extinguishers in plain view.
Did you know?
Each year, more than 5,500 lives are lost (on average, 12 each day) and 30,000 people are seriously injured.
Placement
- Every home should have an extinguisher readily accessible on every level. (One extinguisher for every 600 square feet of living space).
- Extinguishers should especially be placed in kitchens, garages, cars and boats.
Did you know?
Half of all home fires happen at night.
General Safety Habits
- Never smoke in bed.
- Keep matches and lighters away from children.
- Have your furnace and or chimney serviced at least annually.
- Never store combustibles with flammables.
- Keep debris away from items with pilot lights such as water heaters.
Safe Cooking
- Keep items away from the stove that could catch fire, such as towels, clothing and curtains.
- Never leave items being cooked on the stove unattended.
- Keep a fire extinguisher close by and know how to use it.
Electricity
- Use safety plugs in electrical outlets, especially if you have small children.
- Avoid overloading electrical outlets and running cords under carpeting and furniture.
- Check all cords regularly for damage and replace them as needed.
- Avoid making your own extension cords and never remove ground wires.
- When leaving for an extended time such as vacation unplug electrical items.
Did you know?
Children under five years are most likely to suffer -- they have a fire death rate twice the national average.
Fire Escape Drills
- Plan and practice a family fire escape drill at least twice a year.
- Plan for persons with special needs.
- Each second story and higher bedroom should have a fire escape ladder.
- Each room in the home should have two possible escape routes.
- Identify a meeting place outside in case of a fire make sure everyone goes there so they can be accounted for.
- Share your fire escape plan with company and visitors.
- Every one in the family should know how to call for emergency assistance.
- Teach children that Firefighters, EMS, and Police are their friends and that they will help in case of a fire or emergency.