Basic Fire Safety Instructions

The most important way of implementing fire safety is to be watchful of potential hazards in your home. Fire prevention is a vital part of home safety. In the event of an accident, fire awareness and the knowledge that comes with it can make a big difference to your chances of survival.

Home Fire Safety

Ensure that the electric goods in your home are reliable. When you buy appliances, check to make sure that they carry a seal to indicate that they have been tested for safety. Your home must have a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector on every floor. Make sure that the devices are in good working condition, and that the batteries are replaced as needed. If you are moving to a new home, never attempt to do the electric wiring yourself. Tasks such as wiring and installing fireplaces are best handled by professional, insured electricians. Your home must have a working fire extinguisher, and all members of your family must know how to use it.

Risk Factors

If you have smokers in your family, keep ashtrays in the vicinity. Cigarette butts must never be left on furniture. Always check all rooms for any matches or cigarette butts before retiring for the night. Never smoke in bed. Never use accelerants to build a fire. A fire that is out of control can be quite fatal. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords. Any electric appliance that is overheating or emitting smoke of fumes must be replaced or repaired by a professional. In the kitchen, avoid wearing long loose clothing that could catch fire. Use candles very carefully, and provide a stable surface on which to place them, to avoid toppling over.

Fireplaces and Heaters

Space heaters and fireplaces must be installed correctly, by qualified electricians. Avoid risky behavior such as walking too close to such heating appliances. Your clothes may catch fire, or you may burn yourself. These appliances are best installed in low traffic areas of your home. The fireplace must be covered by an adequate fire-proof screen, and a chimney cap must also be in place. Never block the air supply to fireplaces. Have your heaters and fireplace chimneys checked annually by a licensed professional.

Children and Fire Safety

Children must be trained about the basic fire safety rules, such as dropping to the floor and crawling in case of a fire. To keep fumes out, kids must know to cover their mouth and nose with a moist cloth. Children must also be aware that in case of a fire, doors must be opened with extreme caution, after touching the surface and gauging the heat level. If the door feels hot, the door must not be opened. Keep matches and other inflammable material such as gasoline away from children. Any kitchen activities must be supervised by a responsible adult. Always keep children and pets a safe distance away from heaters and fires. Install gates that will act as barriers to such appliances.

Never let your kids operate electric appliances unsupervised. In homes with toddlers, it is important to cover all unused electrical outlets with plastic covers.