MAKING YOUR HOME SAFE

Regarding all safety equipment and hazard detection devices, make sure that all equipment is approved and certified by a nationally recognized testing institute, such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL).  Always follow the manufacture’s instructions for proper use, installation, maintenance and testing procedures.

SMOKE DETECTORS

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

• Have at least one (1) Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector in your home, preferably near sleeping areas.
• Do not place a CO detector in a garage, furnace room, near a stove or fireplace.
• They should be kept away from open windows or doors, excessively hot, cold, or damp areas and ‘dead-air spaces’ such as corners of rooms and peaks of ceilings.
• Be able to differentiate between the alarm sounds of your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors.
• Set up a power detection schedule, as with your smoke detectors

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

• Have at least (1) multi-purpose (ABC) fire extinguisher located near an escape path.
• Ensure that the fire extinguisher is cared for and maintained properly.
• Ensure everyone understands how to properly and safely use it. Even though extinguishers come in a number of shapes and sizes, they all operate in a similar manner.  Here's an easy acronym for fire extinguisher use: PASS (Pull, aim, squeeze and sweep).
• Recharge all fire extinguishers immediately after use, regardless of how much they were used.

FIRE ESCAPE PLAN

• Have at lease two (2) escape paths from each room, a primary and an alternate.  Never use an elevator in case of a fire.
• Practice your plan at least twice a year.
• Make sure everyone can easily unlock and open doors utilized in the escape plan.
• If you must go through a smoky area, crawl.  The coolest, cleanest air will be about 18” off the ground
• Designate a family meeting area located a safe distance from the house.
• Safely leave the building before contacting the fire department. Never return into a burning structure.