What can you do in two minutes? Maybe you could make toast, brush your teeth, and go check your mail. What if you only had two minutes to escape your house in the event of a fire? That doesn’t seem long at all but according to the American Red Cross this is all the time you’ll have to get out to safety. During the midst of a fire an early warning from a working smoke detector might be the key to saving your life. In addition, a familiar fire escape plan, practiced regularly, can also save lives without causing extra panic.
All year long we can be looking for ways to be mindful of preventing fires in our homes but October, in particular, is designated as Fire Safety Month to help us all be aware. Is your family prepared for such a disaster? What can you do to be ready?
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind by using the word: S-T-O-P!
S-Smoke Alarms
Make sure you have a smoke alarm on every floor of your home and outside of every sleep area. Many bedroom fires are caused by the following: misuse or poor maintenance of electrical devices, candles not being attended to, smoking in bed and children playing with matches or lighters. Also items such as electric blankets should not be in use if they have frayed power cords. Electrical outlets should never be overloaded as well.
T-Test your Smoke Alarms every month Remember to change the battery at least once a year. Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one. Some children may be afraid of this sound so help them to become familiar with a smoke alarm and not afraid.
O-Obvious Dangers. For example, most potential hazards can be addressed with some common sense such as keeping flammable items like bedding, clothes and curtains at least 3 feet away from portable heaters or lit candles. Also NEVER SMOKE IN BED. Look for fire “risks” around your home such as appliances left on unattended. Also store matches and lighters in a secure drawer or cabinet. Plus, clean your dryer vents. Clean the lint filter every time you start a load of clothes in the dryer. Make sure your exhaust duct is made of metal tubing and not plastic or foil.
P-Plan your escape route outside your home. Keep access routes clear and have your keys ready. Designate 2 escape routes from each bedroom and practice them regularly with your family. Teach your family the STOP, DROP, and ROLL technique in case clothing catches on fire.
To find free, fire safety educational games and interactive resources on fire prevention visit www.safesleep.org
Establish a family emergency communications plan and make sure all family members know who to contact should you become separated and unable to find one another.
If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and call FOR HELP. Never go back inside for anything or anyone.
Make sure everyone in your family knows how to call 9-1-1.
For further information and helpful tips go to www.redcross.org
Stay safe out there!
