FIRE SAFETY | Tips

Install a smoke alarm outside each sleeping area and on each additional level of your home.

If people sleep with doors closed, install smoke alarms inside sleeping areas, too.

Use the test button to check each smoke alarm once a month. Replace batteries at least once a year.

Vacuum away cobwebs and dust from your smoke alarms monthly.

Smoke alarms become less sensitive over time. Replace alarms every 10 years.

Consider having one or more working fire extinguishers in your home. Get training from the fire department in how to use them.

Consider installing an automatic fire sprinkler system in your home.

Determine at least two ways to escape from every room of your home.

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second or third floor. Learn how to use them and store them near the window.

Select a location outside your home where everyone would meet after escaping.

Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.

Once you are out, stay out! Call the fire department from a neighbor’s home.

If you must exit through smoke, crawl low under the smoke to your exit.

If you are escaping through a closed door, feel the door before opening it. If it is warm, use your second way out.

If smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with the door closed. Signal for help using a bright-colored cloth at the window.

Source: American Red Cross