National Fire Prevention Week is an important occasion to remind ourselves and our loved ones about the essential fire safety tips that can save our lives in the event of a fire. Taking the time to review these tips can make all the difference in an emergency situation.
Tips for Fire Safety at Home:
- Ensure your smoke detectors are in proper working condition. It's recommended to change the batteries in them twice a year, along with changing your clocks.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in your house and be familiar with how to use it.
- Plan a central meeting point outside your house where everyone can gather in case of an emergency, and practice it with your family.
- Inspect electrical appliances for frayed cords, and be cautious of overloading outlets/extension cords.
- Avoid placing hot items such as lamps, candles, and lights near furniture or beds that are flammable.
- Consult with a certified electrician for assistance with home projects to ensure proper wiring.
- Use electric blankets and space heaters with extreme caution.
Tips for Families with Young Children:
- Request Tot Finder stickers that can be placed on the windows of your children's bedrooms.
- Cover unused outlets with plastic safety plugs to prevent accidents.
- Train your children to follow the Stop, Drop and Roll procedure in the event of a fire.
- Store matches, lighters and other similar items in a secure location that's out of reach for children.
- Reach out to your local fire station to see if they offer fire safety talks for kids and schedule a visit.
Creating a Fire Escape Plan:
It's important to have a plan in place in case of a fire emergency. Follow these steps to create a solid fire escape plan for your home:
- Identify a door and window for each room that can be used as an escape route.
- Choose an outside meeting place for everyone to gather once they've escaped. Consider drawing a picture of this location on your escape plan.
- Remember to include the emergency telephone number for the fire department on your escape plan.
- Practice your escape plan with everyone living in your home. Have a grown-up sound the smoke alarm to simulate an emergency.
- Keep your escape plan on the refrigerator and schedule practice sessions at least twice a year or during special occasions like birthdays.
Visit the National Fire Prevention Association's website for more information about fire prevention week, along with free activities, lesson plans, games, and fire safety information.
