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Do you know two ways out of every room in your home or workplace?

 

If not, you should. Whether you are at home or at work, it is vital that you know two ways out of every room. Chances are that, during a fire, one or your potential exits may be blocked or impassable, limiting your means of escape. Knowing and practicing two ways out of every room in your house can make the difference between life and death in a fire.

 

Do you and your family practice a Home Fire Escape Drill?

 

Fire can grow and spread through your home very quickly. In a typical residential fire, you may have as little as two minutes to escape. Knowing how to use those precious moments wisely can make a life-saving difference. Your family should have and practice two escape routes out of the house if a fire should occur. One route should be the way you leave your home, using hallways and stairs. The other should be an alternative route through windows or onto the roof if your normal means of egress are blocked by fire. Also, pick an outside meeting place like a tree, telephone pole or mailbox, and stay there—never go back into a burning house. Get Out and Stay Out!

 

Did you ever think that the location of furniture and clutter in your home could be a fire safety issue?

 

It’s true. Whether it is a dresser blocking a window, piles of clothes or other obstructions, your escape could be impeded. During a fire, that window may be your only means of escape. Move furniture and other obstructions from in front of windows and make sure you can easily open them. Also, have an escape ladder if you sleep on the second floor. Keep escape routes clear and clutter to a minimum. The quicker and easier it is for you to exit a room or a window the better your chances of surviving a fire in your home.

 

 

 

Does your child have access to matches or cigarette lighters?

 

If so, you may want to consider these facts. Children as young as 2 years old can light matches. Between 1995 and 1999, there were 6,970 fires in Ohio caused by children playing with matches or lighters. These fires resulted in 813 injuries and 50 deaths. Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of small children. If your child plays with either, contact your local fire department for information about intervention programs that can help your child.

 

 

Have you ever done a "home inspection" to reduce your risk of a fire?

 

Maybe you should. Home maintenance can be a key in preventing fires. You should inspect and clean your chimneys, furnaces and venting annually to reduce the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. You should also replace any frayed electric cords in your home. Check your cords regularly for cracks, worn spots, exposed wiring or loose plugs. Also, make certain not to overload outlets, power strips or extension cords. And remember, extension cords are for temporary use, not as a substitute for permanent wiring.

Are you or a loved one over the age of 65? Senior citizens are at far greater risk in the event of a residential fire.

 

The risk of fire death for Ohioans age 65 and over is three times greater than the risk for adults under 65. Decreased mobility and reaction time make it essential to have a home fire escape plan. Older Ohioans should also be careful when cooking, laying down and especially while smoking. Place a rubber mat in front of your stove to prevent slipping, never leave cooking unattended and do not use towels as potholders. Never smoke in bed. Furthermore, do not smoke in your favorite, comfortable chair when you feel drowsy or drink alcohol. Sleeping with your bedroom door closed can keep flames and smoke away during a fire. Keep your eyeglasses, a flashlight and a whistle near your bed. Your glasses and flashlight can help during a home escape; and if trapped, blowing a whistle can alert firefighters to your location. And remember, make sure that your smoke detectors are working properly!

 

Do you have one or more fire extinguishers in your home? Do you and your family know how to use them?

 

A portable fire extinguisher can put out a small fire or contain it until the fire department arrives. There are different types of extinguishers to fight different types of fires. "A" for paper and wood; "B" for flammable liquids; and, "C" for electrical fires. Know which one you have. Portable extinguishers are not designed to fight a large or spreading fire. When a fire occurs is not the time to learn how to use your extinguisher. But, the acronym PASS will help you remember how to use it.

 

Pull the safety pin at the top of the extinguisher.

 

Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the flames. Stay between six and eight feet away from the flames.

 

Squeeze or press the handle.

 

Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it goes out.

Place your extinguishers near doorways where it will be accessible to you in an emergency and along your escape route. Remember your life is worth more than your possessions. If a fire is large, like a small wastebasket, or is spreading, get everyone out and stay out! Call the fire department from a neighbor’s house.

 

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