Protect your most valuable possessions: Review and Practice Fire Safety

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

Many home fires can be prevented if you learn, follow and teach family members safety and prevention guidelines. 

• Smoke Detectors: on every floor of your home. If you call our local Fire Departments they can you decide the best location to have them installed. Be certain to test and replace batteries on your smoke detectors on a regular basis.
• Portable fire extinguishers: can be life and property saving tools when used correctly. Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. A fire extinguisher should be tested yearly to ensure they are in working order.   

• In order to operate an extinguisher, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests remembering the word PASS:

  Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

  Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

  Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

  Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

  It is always a good idea to show EVERYONE in your household how to use a fire extinguisher in case of fire.  You never know when or where the fire will start and having more than one person know how to use an extinguisher could save you from excessive damage to your home or save a life.

• Store flammable liquids in appropriate containers: Dispose of all unused newspapers, rags, and other flammable material. Keep everything away from electrical outlets.
• Create an emergency escape plan with your family in case of a fire. Agree on meeting place outside of the home where you will meet and ensure everyone is out safely. Have a practice fire drill. 

• If your home is on fire DO NOT STAY IN THE HOUSE!
• If your house is on fire and you are inside a closed room, feel the door with the back of your hand before you open it to see if it hot. 
• Breathing smoke can be very dangerous! Heat rises, so there will be more smoke higher in the room. Get on your hands and knees and crawl to the nearest exit away from the fire.
• If your clothing should catch on fire, DO NOT RUN! REMEMBER STOP, DROP, and ROLL! If your sleeves are not on fire use your arms to cover/protect your face.These safety tips can help keep you and your family stay safe!