Submitted for post by Kentucky Steve.
Fire Safety
Did you know?
A fire's heat alone can kill. Room temperatures can reach 100°F at floor level and rise to 600°F degrees at eye level. Air this hot can melt clothes to skin and scorch lungs when inhaled.
Source: usfa.dhs.gov
Each year in the U.S., approximately 4,000 people die, more than 20,000 people are injured and $6.9 billion in property damage is caused by home fires. You can prevent the loss of life and property by following some basic fire safety guidelines.
Fire prevention
The best way to practice fire safety is to prevent one from happening in the first place. Keep the following fire prevention tips in mind:
· According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the leading cause of fire deaths is careless smoking. Make sure cigarettes and/or cigars are extinguished properly before dumping ashes, and never smoke in bed.
· Keep matches and lighters out of children's reach.
· Never leave a burning candle unattended.
· Do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords.
· Avoid cooking fires by keeping your kitchen and appliances grease-free.
· Replace or professionally repair any appliances that overheat, smell unusual or spark.
· Space heaters can be dangerous if not used correctly. Make sure yours will automatically shut off if tipped over, and keep flammable materials and children at least three feet away.
· Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.
Life saving equipment
· Homes should be equipped with smoke detectors on every level, particularly outside of sleeping areas. Test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
· Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen, near the furnace and in your garage. If you must use an extinguisher, make sure you have a clear way out in the event you can't put out the fire.
· Have a slide or rope ladder available if there is only one exit from the upper floor.
· Consider having a residential sprinkler system installed.
Escaping a fire
· Plan and practice an escape route for each area of your home. Be sure to include pets as part of your organized evacuation plan.
· If smoke is present, crawl or stay low to the ground to prevent inhalation of smoke and toxic fumes.
· Always feel a door before opening it. If it's hot, do not open it and find another way out.
· Teach every family member to “stop, drop and roll” if clothes catch fire.
· Teach children not to hide from fire or smoke and to go to firefighters who are there to help them.
· Ensure windows are in proper working order and are not painted shut. Window guards should include a disengagement latch in case you must escape through a window.
· Never take the elevator during a fire. You may be trapped if the power goes out.
· Have a designated meeting place outside.
· Never re-enter a burning building.
· Call 9-1-1 from a neighbor's house.
For more information, visit FireSafety.gov.
