Fire Prevention at Home

Tips for Fire Prevention at Home

Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. Make sure everyone in your home knows the sound and understands the warning of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.

Make a home escape plan. Draw a map of each level of the home. Show all doors and windows. Practice the plan with everyone in your household. Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Make sure they can open windows, remove screens, and unlock doors. Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open. If a room has a window air conditioner, make sure there is still a second way out of the room.

Make sure everyone in your home knows how to call 9-1-1, or your local emergency number, from a cell phone or a trusted neighbor’s phone.

Have an outside meeting place (something permanent, like a tree, light pole, or mailbox) a safe distance in front of the home where firefighters will easily find you.

Practice your home fire escape drill at least twice a year with everyone in your home. Practice at night and during the daytime.

Push the smoke alarm button to start the drill. Practice what to do in case there is smoke. Get low and go. Get out fast. Practice using different ways out. Close doors behind you as you leave. Get out and stay out. Never go back inside for people, pets, or things.