Oram Court HOA

Fire Safety Tips for Your Home

Jun 30, 2009

SMOKE ALARMS

?· Have a working smoke alarm outside each sleeping area, inside each sleeping area, and on each level of your home.
?· Test smoke alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Do not change the battery if you have a lithium battery. The alarm will let out a periodic ?“chirping?” sound when it needs a new battery.
?· Install smoke alarms away from air vents.
?· Install smoke alarms on the ceiling or wall, at least 4 inches from the corners.
?· When affixed to walls, smoke alarms should be between 4 and 12 inches from the ceiling.
?· Never disable or remove smoke alarm batteries.

ESCAPE PLANNING

?· Develop a fire escape plan with the members of your household and practice often.
?· Know two ways to exit from every room in your home.
?· Make sure that safety bars on windows can be opened from inside your home.
?· Crawl low, under smoke.
?· Feel closed doors. If hot, use another exit.
?· Identify a place to meet outside in case of fire. Never re-enter a burning building.
?· Escape first. Then call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.

FIRE SAFETY

?· Keep clothes, blankets, curtains and other combustibles at least three feet from portable heaters.
?· Place portable heaters where they will not tip over easily.
?· Have chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a professional.
?· Clear the area around the hearth of debris, flammables and decorative materials.
?· Always use a metal mesh screen with fireplaces and leave glass doors open while burning a fire.
?· Keep clothes, towels and other combustibles away from stove burners.
?· Never leave cooking unattended.
?· Be sure your stove and small appliances are off before going to bed.
?· Check for frayed wires and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
?· Never overload electrical sockets.
?· Keep lighters and matches out of the reach of children.
?· Never leave cigarettes unattended.
?· Never smoke in bed.

http://www.dallasfirerescue.com/fpei.htm