While the weather starts to cool off and the days get shorter, we all (or at least I) start to think about celebrating holidays and sipping hot cocoa and spending the evening gathered around a warm fire. But did you know that every year since 1925, the week of October 9 has been Fire Prevention Week? So before you get lost in thoughts of crackling logs in your fireplace, think about how YOU are going to prevent fires this year.
Here are five ideas to get you started:
1. Ensure you have smoke alarms installed.
Whether you live in an apartment or house, smoke alarms are essential to preventing fires and fire related injuries. You should put them on each floor of your house; one in each bedroom, the kitchen, the living area, and any other large room in the house.
2. Test your smoke alarms.
Having smoke alarms installed won’t do you any good if they don’t work. They should be tested monthly and the batteries should be changed at least once a year. For most alarms you just have to push a button to test them—better to take the 3-5 minutes and test them than to find out they don’t work after it’s too late.
3. Make an emergency family escape plan.
In the event of a fire, the chaos can take over and things can get hectic. Whether you live in a one bedroom apartment or a five bedroom house, having a plan in place is a must. Explain to your children what might happen in the case of a fire, and how to respond accordingly. You should outline two routes out of each room and decide on main and backup meet-up locations. If you have small children or pets, decide which of you are responsible for making sure they get out safely.
4. Inspect your home for fire hazards daily.
Make yourself aware of potential hazards in your home so that you can keep them from becoming a problem. Ensure electrical wires are not loose or frayed. Use the correct wattage light bulbs in fixtures. Keep fabrics such as bedspreads, curtains, and tablecloths and paper such as magazines, newspapers, and books away from lamps, space heaters, and any other source of heat. Most importantly, only allow open flame under strict supervision, whether it be in the kitchen, fireplace, or a candle.
5. Keep a fire extinguisher around.
Having at least one fire extinguisher can mean having the ability to stop a small fire from consuming your entire home. Make sure every capable member of the family is taught how to properly use them and keep them in appropriate places.
Preventing a fire may seem like a lot of work but it is nothing compared to recovering from one. Check with your local fire department for events and classes that will help you and your family stay safe this year!
