Enhancing the Quality of Life at Home TM

Fire Safety

Some statistics from the National Fire Protection Association:

• One home structure fire was reported every 87 seconds in 2009.

• On average, seven people died in home fires every day. Adults 65 and over face the highest risk.

• In 2009, U.S. Fire Departments responded to 362,500 home structure fires at a cost of $7.5 billion in direct damages.

In order to provide a safer environment:

• Plan an escape.

• Have working smoke alarms.

• Have home fire sprinklers.

• Cooking – Have functional cooking equipment. Don’t leave cooking food unattended.

• Heating – Have functional heating equipment. Keep equipment clean and keep a safe distance between heater and other household items.

• Electrical – Keep electrical equipment clean and in good order.

• Candles – Keep a safe distance from other items that can burn. Make sure candles are not left burning while sleeping.

How to make a home fire escape plan

• Draw a map of your home. Show all doors and windows.

• Visit each room. Find two ways out.

• All windows and doors should open easily and be able to use to get outside.

• Make sure your home has smoke alarms. Push the test button to make sure smoke alarm works.

• Pick a meeting place outside your home were everyone can meet.

• Make sure your house/building number can be seen from the street.

• Talk about your plan with everyone in your home.

• Learn the emergency phone number for your fire department.

• Practice your home fire escape drill.