More Fire Safety Tips
1. Have your chimney and fireplace inspected by a professional to make sure it’s clean and free of obstructions. Be sure the fireplace is covered with a metal screen or glass doors to prevent the spread of sparks and fire.
2. When purchasing a space heater, make sure it bears the UL safety label and is equipped with a cut-off safety feature that turns the heater off should the heater accidently tip over or overheat.
3. Space heaters need space. Make sure they are at least three feet away from combustible materials such as draperies, furniture, bedding, clothing, and decorations. Warn children to keep away from them.
4. Install a working smoke alarm outside of every bedroom and on every level of your house. Test the smoke alarms monthly.
5. Have a plan in case you have a fire: Step 1 - Design an evacuation plan for your home and family. Make sure everyone understands exactly what to do and where to go in case of an emergency.
6. Have a plan in case you have a fire: Step 2 - Know two ways out of every room and practice them to make sure you can do it.
7. Have a plan in case you have a fire: Step 3 - Crawl low under smoke and feel closed doors for heat. If the door is warm, find another way out.
8. Have a plan in case you have a fire: Step 4 - In the unfortunate event you become trapped, close doors and stuff the door cracks to keep smoke out. Try to call 911 and let them know exactly where you are and signal for help from a window.
9. Have a plan in case you have a fire: Step 5 - Pay special attention to young children, elderly people and the disabled. Be sure to include them in your plan.
10. Have a plan in case you have a fire: Step 6 - Get out as fast as you can and stay out. Never go back inside. Once you’re safely outside have someone go to a neighbor’s house and call 911.
11. Have a fire extinguisher available in your home and make sure it is fully charged. Know how to use your fire extinguisher. Remember the acronym PASS: Pull the pin. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. Squeeze the trigger lever. Sweep the stream side-to-side at the base of the fire. If the fire is out of control, do not attempt to fight the fire. Exit your home and call 911.
