Fire Safety

The following are tips on fire safety and prevention:

• Identify any risk factors.  It is important to identify the hazards in your area and how to avoid them.
• Know where the fire exits are and identify escape routes.
• Keep matches, lighters and candles away from children.
• Do not leave burning candles unattended and never sleep with candles burning.
• Remove electrical cords from under rugs and from behind radiators.  Never nail or staple the cord to walls/molding.
• Do not overload outlets or extension cords.
• Install a smoke detector alarm on every level including the basement.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month.
• Replace smoke alarm batteries at least twice a year.
• Replace smoke alarms at least every 10 years.

If there is a fire, follow the following tips on escaping a fire:

• Plan alternative escape route in the case that the normal route is blocked by fire and/or smoke.
• Never use elevators.
• Feel doorway to check for heat.
• Know or plan a meeting place outside so you will know everyone is out safe.

If you are trapped by a fire:

• Get to a room as far from the fire as possible, preferably with a window.
• Close the door to the room you are in to prevent spread of fire.
• Cover your mouth with a wet cloth and stay low.
• Try to block openings where smoke can enter.
• If you cannot get out, call the fire department with specifics of your location.

If you smell smoke or see a fire, leave the area and if possible, call 911 and/or pull the building fire alarm.  Once outside, remember to stay outside and do not go back in.

Early notification can make all the difference.

Carbon Monoxide