Install Smoke Alarms

Working smoke alarms can alert you to a fire in your home. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement, and outside each bedroom. If you sleep with the door closed, install one inside your bedroom as well. Test alarms every month, following the manufacturer’s directions, and replace batteries twice a year, or whenever an alarm “chirps” to signal a low battery. Replace alarms that are more than 10 years old.

Kitchen Safety

Never leave cooking unattended. Keep your cooking area free of combustibles and take care to wear clothes with short, rolled-up or tight fitting sleeves when you cook. If grease catches on fire in a pan, slide a lid over the pan to smother the flames and turn off the heat. Never attempt to throw water on this fire. This will only spread the fire, and could possibly splash back on you. If you have a fire don't hesitate to call the Fire Department, even if you think it's out.

Electrical Safety

Don't overload extension cords or run them under rugs. Discard any extension cord that is frayed or cracked. If an electrical appliance smokes or has an unusual odor, unplug it immediately, then have it serviced before using it again. Never tamper with your breaker box or use improper-size breakers. Take care when using appliances near water.

Create A Fire Escape Plan

If a fire starts in your home, get out fast. Prepare for a fire emergency by gathering your family together and forming a fire escape plan. Make sure everyone knows at least two unobstructed ways out – doors and windows – of every room in your home. Decide on a meeting place outside where everyone will meet. This helps firefighters confirm that everyone is out safely. Have everyone practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year.

Crawl Low Under Smoke

During a fire, smoke and poisonous gases rise with the heat. The air near the floor is cleaner and cooler. If you encounter smoke while you are escaping from a fire, use an alternate escape route.

Matches And Lighters

Teach your children that matches and lighters are tool, not toys and should only be used by an adult. Store matches and lighters up high where small children see or reach them.

Burns

Run cool water or a burn for 10 to 15 minutes. Never put butter or grease on a burn. If the burned skin blisters or is charred, see a doctor immediately.

Stop, Drop and Roll

If your clothes catch fire, don't run. Stop where you are, Drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and Roll over and over to smother the flames.

Space Heaters

When using a space heater, remember to keep it at least three feet from anything that will burn. Keep children and pets away from heaters, and never leave heaters on when you leave home or go to bed.

Fire Extinguishers

A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives; but portable extinguishers have limitations. Because fire grows and spreads so rapidly, the number one priority for residents is to get out safely.