Home
>
Tips/Resources
>
Fact Sheet Library
>
Fact Sheets: Safety How-Tos
HOME FIRE EMERGENCY PLAN
Fire is one of the most common home hazards and one of the deadliest. By creating a fire emergency plan, you and your family can greatly reduce your chances of being injured in a fire.
- Use Smoke Detectors
- Smoke detectors should be installed on every level of your home, in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area.
- Keep smoke detectors away from cooking vapors to prevent false or nuisance alarms.
- Proper placement is on the ceiling. However, if a wall must be used, install the detector(s) at a minimum distance of 4" and a maximum distance of 12" from the ceiling.
- Be sure that any unit you purchase is UL listed.
- Smoke detectors should be routinely replaced every 10 years.
- Test Your Smoke Detectors
- Test each smoke detector in your home at least monthly by pushing the test button.
- Replace the batteries twice a year.
- Fire Extinguisher in the Kitchen
- Regularly check the fire extinguisher to ensure that it is properly charged.
- Use the test button or gauge to check proper pressure level.
- If the extinguisher is damaged, corroded or low on pressure, have it professionally serviced.
- Your local fire department may be able to provide you with additional fire extinguisher training.
Plan Your Escape Paths
- Identify Two Escape Paths From Each Room in Your Home
- If there is smoke in your first path, use your second option.
- If you must exit through smoke, stay low where the air is fresher and easier to breathe.
- If you must open a closed door, feel it before opening. If it is hot, use your second option.
- If heat, flames or smoke block your escape paths, stay in the room with the door closed. Signal for help at the window using a bright-colored cloth. If there is a phone in the room call 911 and give your location.
- Determine whether a ladder is needed for your plan. If it is, make sure everyone knows how to set it up and use it.
- Designate a family meeting place outside the home
- Once you are out, stay out
- Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.
Acknowledgments: | |
American Red Cross | |
National Fire Protection Association |