Smoke detectors warn you of a fire in time for you to escape. Install them on each level of your
home and outside of each sleeping area. Test them every month, following manufacturer's directions. Replace batteries once a
year, or whenever the detector chirps to signal that it's battery is low. Don't ever borrow detector batteries for other use -
a disabled smoke detector can't save your life! For complete home protection, consider installing automatic fire sprinklers in
addition to your smoke detectors.
2) Plan and Practice to Escape
If fire breaks out in your home, you have to get out fast! With your family, plan two ways out of
every room. Fire escape routes must not use elevators, which might take you right into the fire. Choose a meeting place
outside where everyone will gather, and once you are out, stay out! At least twice a year, have the whole family practice the
escape plan.
3) Smokers Need Watchers
Carelessly discarded cigarettes are the leading cause of fire deaths in the United States. Never
smoke in bed or when you are drowsy. Provide large, deep ash trays for smokers, and pour water on the butts before discarding
them. Before going to bed or leaving home, check under and around sofa cushions for smoldering cigarettes.
4) Be Careful While Cooking
Never leave cooking unattended. Keep cooking areas clear
of combustibles, and wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook. Keep the
handles of your pots turned inward so the pots can't be knocked or pulled over. If
grease catches fire, carefully slide a lid over the pan to smother the flames, then
turn off the burner. Never put foil r other metals in a microwave oven.
5) Space Heaters Need Space
Keep portable and space heaters at least 3 feet from
anything that can burn. Never leave heaters on when you leave home or go to bed, and
keep children and pets away from them.
6) Matches and Lighters Are Tools
In the hands of a child, matches or lighters are deadly.
Use child-resistant lighters, and store all matches and lighters up high where kids
can't reach them, preferably in a locked cabinet. Teach your children from the
start that matches and lighters are tools for adults, not toys for kids. If children
find matches or lighters, they should tell a grownup immediately.
7) Use Electricity Safely
If an appliance smokes or has an unusual smell, unplug it
immediately and have it repaired. Replace any electrical cord that is cracked or
frayed. Don't overload extension cords or run them under rugs, and don't tamper with
the fuse box or use fuses of an improper size.
8) Cool A Burn
If someone gets burned, immediately place the wound in
cool water for 10 - 15 minutes. If the burn blisters or chars, see a doctor
immediately.
9) Stop, Drop, and Roll
Everyone should know this rule: if your clothes catch
fire, don't run! Stop where you are, drop to the ground, cover your face with your
hands to protect your face and lungs, and roll over and over to smother the
flames.
10) Crawl Low Under Smoke
Smoke is Dangerous! If you encounter smoke, use an
alternate escape route. If you must exit through smoke, the cleanest air will be 14
- 24 inches above the floor. Crawl on your hands and knees to the nearest safe exit.
