Fire Safety
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home. For the best
detection and notification protection, install both ionization- and
photoelectric-type smoke alarms. Some models provide dual coverage. The
type will be printed on the box or package. Put them inside or near
every bedroom. Test them monthly to make sure they work. Put in new
batteries once a year. Replace smoke detectors every five years.
- Make a fire escape plan for your family. Find two exits out of every room. Pick a meeting place outside. Practice makes perfect – hold a family fire drill at least twice each year.
- If you have a fire in your home, get out, stay out. Do not go back inside for any reason.
- Call 911 from a cell phone or a neighbor's house.
- Know how to put out a small pan fire by sliding a lid over the flames.
- Teach every family member to “Stop, Drop, Roll and Cool” if clothes catch fire by dropping immediately to the ground, crossing hands over your chest and rolling over and over or back and forth to put out the flames. Cool the burned area with cool water and seek medical attention for serious burns.
- Consider having a home fire sprinkler system installed in your new home, or when you remodel.
- Learn how and when to use a fire extinguisher.
- Always stay in the kitchen while cooking.
- Keep things that can burn, such as dishtowels, paper or plastic bags, and curtains at least three feet away from the range top.
- Before cooking, roll up sleeves and use oven mitts. Loose-fitting clothes can touch a hot burner and catch on fire.
