How to Protect Your Family from a Fire

Smoke alarms provide vital early warning of fire danger

• Install a smoke alarm in every room including basements and finished attics, in each bedroom and hallways outside of every sleeping area, and at the top and bottom of stairways.
• Make sure everyone knows what the smoke alarm sounds like.
• Test your smoke alarms frequently and change the batteries as needed.
• Replace your smoke alarms every 10 years.

Fire extinguishers can create a pathway to safety

• Keep an extinguisher in every part of your home where fire might occur-especially in the kitchen, living room and laundry room.
• Read the instructions and know how to use your extinguishers before a fire breaks out.
• The only time a fire extinguisher should be used to fight a fire is when
  - the fire is small self-contained not spreading rapidly;
  - the fire department has been notified;
  - there is a clear exit behind the person using the extinguisher;
  - and the extinguisher is used to create a safe pathway out of the home.
• Respect all fires, regardless of size. Fire extinguishers are one part of a fire response plan. The main objective is safe escape.
• Check your fire extinguisher and replace it if require.

Prepare and practice a home escape plan

• Practice two ways out of every room to mimic the most difficult fire situation you might encounter.
• Be sure to practice your escape plan during the day and at night.
• Assign an adult to wake and assist each child in the house.
• Also consider lending extra help to family members who are physically challenged or elderly.
• Identify a meeting place outside the home.
• Practice, practice, practice - at least twice every year