Fire Prevention

Some Fire Safety Tips

  • Install smoke alarms on each floor of your home. Also place one in the kitchen and near each bed room
  • Test your smoke alarms weekly, follow the manufacture's instructions, and change your batteries twice a year when you change your clocks (spring and fall).
  • Smoke alarms that are direct wired to an AC source will not function during a power failure, unless they have a battery backup. Consider replacing hard-wired smoke alarms with battery-powered smoke alarms, or ones that have a battery to operate the alarm in the event of a power failure.
  • Make sure each room has two ways to escape, often during a fire one of the exits may be blocked by flames or smoke.
  • Plan your evacuation routes, and choose a meeting place outside where everyone will meet so that you know everyone is safe. Never go back into a burning house.
  • Practice your escape plan at least twice a year. The is especially important for young children.
  • If you live in a multi-story building, do not use elevators in the event of a fire.
  • If electrical devices produce smoke or smell like they are burning, unplug it immediately and have it repaired or replaced.
  • Inspect electrical cords and replace any that are damaged, cracked or frayed.
  • Use only extension cords specifically designed and approved by the Underwriters Laboratory for outdoor use.
  • Never run extension cords under rugs or carpet. This may cause them to be damaged when walked on, or cause them to overheat and start a fire.
  • Remember that fuses and circuit breakers protect you from fires. Do not tamper with fuse boxes or use fuses of improper size or ampere (amp) rating.

Cooking Safety

  • Keep pot handles turned toward the inside of the stove to minimize the chance that they will be knocked over.
  • If cooking oil catches fire, smoother the flame by putting a lid over the pan then turn the burner off.

Never apply water to an oil fire.

Before Going To Bed At Night

  • Switch off all oil and gas household appliances.
  • Unplug electrical appliances not in use.
  • If you have a fireplace, check that the fire is low and that the spark guard is in place.
  • If you smoke, make sure all smoking material is extinguished and empty ashtrays into a suitable metal container.

Portable Space Heaters

  • Keep portable heaters and space heaters at least three feet from anything flammable to avoid starting a fire.
  • Never leave heaters on when leaving the house or going to bed.
  • Keep children well away from them.