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Working Together for
Home Fire Safety
More than 4,500 Americans die each year in fires and more than 30,000 are
injured. An overwhelming number of fires occur in the home. There are
time-tested ways to prevent and survive a fire. It's not a question of luck.
It's a matter of planning ahead.
Every home should have at least one smoke detector
Buy a smoke detector at any hardware or discount store. It's inexpensive
protection for you and your family. Install a smoke detector on every level of
your home. A working smoke detector can double your chances of survival. Check
it monthly, keep it free of dust, and replace the battery at least once a year.
Smoke detectors themselves should be replaced after ten years of service.
Prevent electrical fires
Never overload circuits or extension cords. Do not place cords and wires under
rugs, over nails or in high traffic areas. Immediately shut off and replace or
have professionally repaired appliances and lamps that sputter, spark or omit an
unusual smell. Have an electrician check the wiring in your house.
Use appliances wisely
When using appliances, follow the manufacturer's safety precautions.
Overheating, unusual smells, shorts and sparks are all warning signs that
appliances need to be shut off, then replaced or repaired. Unplug appliances
when not in use. Use safety caps to cover all unused outlets, especially if
there are small children in the home.
Alternate heaters
- Portable electric space heaters need their space. Keep anything
combustible at least three feet away.
- Keep fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned
annually. The creosote build-up can ignite your roof and the entire house.
- Kerosene heaters should only be used where approved by authorities. Never
use gasoline or camp-stove fuel. Refuel outside and only after the heater
has cooled.
Affordable home fire safety sprinklers
When home fire sprinklers are used with working smoke detectors, your chances of
surviving a fire increase greatly. Sprinklers are affordable - they can increase
property value and lower insurance rates.
New technology will allow sprinklers to be connected directly to your
standard home plumbing system. Individual sprinkler heads are only activated
where fire strikes. Consider a home sprinkler system whenever renovating, buying
or building a house. Contact your local fire department for more information.
Plan your escape
Practice an escape plan from every room in the house. Feel your way out with
your eyes closed. Caution everyone to stay low to the ground when escaping from
fire an never to open doors that are hot. Purchase an approved escape ladder to
climb out of rooms above the first floor, and practice using it. Select a
location where everyone can meet after escaping the house. Get everyone out
quickly, and then call the fire department from a neighbor's home.
Caring for children
Children under five are naturally curious about fire. Many play with matches and
lighters. Tragically, these children set over 100,000 fires every year.
Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching your children that fire is a
tool, not a toy. Practice fire safety in your home by following these tips:
- Keep matches and lighters in a safe place.
- Look for signs of fire play, such as burn holes in carpets, clothes or
furniture, burnt matches in a closet or under the bed, or disappearing
lighters or matches.
- Teach them not to hide from a fire but to get out and stay out.
- Have regular safety drills with your family. Practice escape plans.
Caring for older people
Every year 1,000 senior citizens die in fires. Many of these fire deaths could
have been prevented. Seniors are especially vulnerable because many live alone
and can't respond quickly. Show your concern for an older person by reminding
him or her to:
- Never smoke in bed. And when smoking anywhere else, put out cigars and
cigarettes immediately if drowsy.
- Never leave lit cigars, cigarettes, or pipes unattended.
- Never wear dangling sleeves or loose garments when cooking.
- Turn off burners when leaving the kitchen. If cooking food must be left
unattended, take a potholder or spoon as a reminder.
Finally, having a working smoke detector dramatically increases your chances
of surviving a fire. And remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with
your family.
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