Dog in fire station with fire engine in background

Surviving And Preventing Fires

Educate your children about fire safety!

Unfortunately, children are the ones who fall victims to fire due to lack of education.Please discuss these topics with your loved ones!

Devising A Plan

  • Draw a complete floor plan of your home.
  • Indicate all doors and windows.
  • Map out two escape routes from every room in your home.
  • Choose a safe meeting place outside the house where everyone knows they will meet in a fire emergency.
  • Practice your escape route twice a year.
  • Check your windows to see if they operate properly.
  • Purchase a chain ladder to exit from upper levels.
  • Get outside and stay outside!

In a fire emergency the best place to be is outside!
 

Preventing Fires

Smoke Detectors

  • Place smoke detectors near bedrooms and on every floor.
  • Test the batteries monthly & replace them at least twice a year.
  • WHEN YOU CHANGE YOUR CLOCK, CHANGE THE BATTERY IN YOUR SMOKE DETECTOR     
  • Place smoke detectors at least 4 to 6 inches away from corners.

Kitchen Fire Safety

  • Never leave cooking unattended.
  • Keep lose fitting clothing away from burners.
  • Keep cooking area clean and free of grease build up.
  • Keep items away from the stove that could catch fire, such as paper towels, cereal boxes, and dish towels.
  • Remember to turn stove off and unplug small appliances before leaving your home.

Preventing Dryer Fires

Safe Smoking Habits

  • Smoking is the leading cause of fatal fires in this country!
  • Never smoke in bed.
  • Keep ashtrays from upholstered furniture and curtains.
  • Never leave burning cigarettes unattended.
  • Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.

Alternative Heaters

  • Use heaters only in well ventilated areas.
  • Place heaters where they will not be knocked over easily.
  • Keep blankets, clothing, curtains, furniture and anything that could get hot and catch fire away from portable heaters.
  • Plug heaters directly into the wall socket and unplug them when they are not in use.

Wood Stoves And Fire Places

  • Always use a protective screen.
  • Clean interiors, hearths, and chimneys annually.
  • Never leave children unattended around any heating source!

Children And Fire Safety

  • Teach children that fire fighters are their friends, and will help them in a fire emergency.
  • Keep matches and lighters away from children.
  • Make sure children know how to call for emergency assistance.
  • Teach children how to " Stop, Drop and Roll" if their clothes catch on fire.

For more information regarding fire safety or available educational programs, please call Patricia Dempsey at (813) 274-8241.