Since 1922, the second week of October has been designated as Fire Prevention Week (FPW). Here are a few tips to keep yourself prepared.
Prevent a Fire
- Clean your dryer vent after each use. Built-up fibers from clothing may lead to an electrical fire.
- Annually inspect electrical appliances and extension cords for worn plugs and loose connections.
- Clean behind your stove, refrigerator, and other electrical equipment against a wall. Dust build-up leads to a fire.
- Have all heating equipment cleaned and inspected annually.
- Clear storage areas. Store flammable and combustible liquids in approved containers. Keep those outside/in the garage.
Prepared for Potential Fires
- Install smoke detectors.
- Every level of your home should have a smoke detector. Clean them monthly. Change the batteries every time you set your clocks for Daylight Savings Time.
- *Tip: Do you have difficulty hearing? Look into installing vibrating smoke alarms on your bed.
- Make your house numbers visible. Rescue personnel need to see your address clearly from the road.
- Keep a folding ladder and flashlight in every upstairs bedroom. This helps you escape if a fire blocks you from using the stairs.
- Plan two ways out. Make a back-up escape route for every room in the house. Draw a map and keep it handy, such as in a drawer by your bed.
- *Tip: Unable to leave on your own? Have a neighbor be your emergency contact. Alert your local fire department that you would need assistance during a fire.
- Pick a meeting spot. Have everyone report after escaping the house fire. Once out, stay out!
- Practice, practice, practice. When you change your smoke detector batteries, practice your home fire drill. Do one drill at night and one during the day with all family members.
- Pets need protection, too. Keep a leash for each pet in your bedroom. If you need to escape, the leash is right at hand to help you get your pet out with you.
During a Fire
- Stay calm and stay low. Follow your plan.
- Close doors behind you as you leave. This could slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
- Once outside, stay outside. Go to your designated meeting place.
- Check that all family members and pets are accounted for. Alert the fire department if someone is missing.
Goal:
Prevent and prepare for a fire.
Things to Do:
Prevent: Keep all appliances clean. Inspect cords and heating equipment.
Prepare: Make an escape plan, with two routes out of each room. Pick a meeting spot. Practice your plan twice a year.
During a fire: Follow your plan. Close doors behind you.
Be Informed – Resources:
www.nfpa.org (National Fire Protection Association)
Caregivers – How can you get involved?
Know your loved one’s escape plan. Practice the plan together. Contact their local fire department to let staff know your loved one would need help in an emergency.
Take time once a year to make sure your loved one’s appliances are cleaned and inspected.
Make sure your loved one has the appropriate smoke detectors/alarms for their disability. Contact a home medical equipment provider to learn about the different options available.
