FIRE SAFETY
More than 4,000 Americans die each year in fires, and approximately 20,000
are injured. Deaths resulting from failed emergency escapes are particularly
avoidable.
In the event of a fire, remember
- time is the biggest enemy and every second counts! Escape plans help you get
out of your home quickly. In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get
completely out of control and turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for
a house to fill with thick black smoke and become engulfed in flames.
Practice escape plans every month. The best plans have two ways to get out
of each room. If the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke, you will need a
second way out. A secondary route might be a window onto an adjacent roof or
using an Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) approved collapsible ladder for escape
from upper story windows. Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be
taken out quickly and that security bars can be properly opened. Also, practice
feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.
Security
Bars Require Special Precautions
Security bars may help to keep your family safe from intruders, but they can also trap you in a deadly fire! Windows and doors with security bars must have quick release devices to allow them to be opened immediately in an emergency. Make sure everyone in the family understands and practices how to properly operate and open locked or barred doors and windows.
When a fire occurs, do not waste any time saving property. Take the safest
exit route, but if you must escape through smoke, remember to crawl low, under
the smoke and keep your mouth covered. The smoke contains toxic gases which can
disorient you or, at worst, overcome you.
When you come to a closed door, use the back of your hand to feel the top
of the door, the doorknob, and the crack between the door and door frame to
make sure that fire is not on the other side. If it feels hot, use your
secondary escape route. Even if the door feels cool, open it carefully. Brace
your shoulder against the door and open it slowly. If heat and smoke come in,
slam the door and make sure it is securely closed, then use your alternate
escape route.
Designate a meeting location away from the home, but not necessarily across
the street. For example, meet under a specific tree or at the end of the
driveway or front sidewalk to make sure everyone has gotten out safely and no
one will be hurt looking for someone who is already safe. Designate one person
to go to a neighbor's home to phone the fire department.
Once Out, Stay
Out
Remember to escape first, then notify the fire
department using the 911 system or proper local emergency number in your area.
Never go back into a burning building for any reason. Teach children not to
hide from firefighters. If someone is missing, tell the firefighters. They are
equipped to perform rescues safely.
Finally, having working smoke
alarms installed on every level of your home dramatically increases your
chances of survival. Smoke alarm batteries need to be tested every month and
changed with new ones at least once a year. Also, consider replacing the entire
smoke alarm every ten years, or as the manufacturer guidelines recommend.
Fire Investigator