Fire Prevention Tips

October is National Fire Prevention Month. Having proper devices and eliminating potential hazards can prevent a home fire. It is also important to have an emergency plan in place in case a fire begins. Here are some tips that can keep your family safe:

Smoke Alarms

  • Make sure there is a smoke alarm in every bedroom and outside every sleeping area in your home.
  • Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries annually.
  • Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.
  • If someone in the household has hearing issues, install alarms that have flashing lights and vibration.
  • Make sure smoke alarms are mounted high on walls or ceilings since smoke rises.

Eliminate Potential Hazards

  • Keep flammable items away from the stovetop or other cooking devices.
  • Never leave the kitchen while cooking.
  • Supervise children in the kitchen at all times.
  • Keep lighters, matches and gasoline out of the reach of children.
  • Do not leave space heaters on when you are sleeping or out of the room.
  • Replace old frayed electrical wires or appliance cords.
  • Never leave a burning candle unattended.
  • Clean and inspect chimneys once a year.

Develop an Emergency Plan

  • Plan escape routes from every room in the house. It is good to have 2 exits in case one is blocked by fire.
  • Practice a fire drill at least twice a year. Make sure to set off the actual smoke alarms so children are familiar with the sound.
  • Designate a meeting place outside the house for all family members to meet when they have safely exited the home.
  • Teach children to crawl low to escape if the see smoke.
  • Remind family members to touch doors with the back of their hand before opening them. If they are hot an alternate route must be used.
  • Visit your local fire station so that children can meet firefighters and become familiar with their equipment. This allows them to feel comfortable with these workers in case they are called to your home during a fire.

These tips provided by Safe Kids USA. To find out more, visit http://www.safekids.org/safety-basics/safety-resources-by-risk-area/fire-burn-and-scalds/fire-prevention-tips-1.html