We cannot overstate the importance of knowing what to do, and ensuring your family knows what to do, in case of a fire in the home. Planning for fire safety means ensuring you have up-to-date working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, along with a plan for what to do in an emergency. Learn more in today’s guide.
Smoke Detectors
You should have several smoke detectors in your home, especially near areas where people sleep. In addition, it’s important to keep them maintained…
- Test smoke alarms each month by holding down the button.
- Replace the batteries every six months (many people do this when they change their clocks for daylight saving time.
- Replace smoke detectors every ten years.
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers should be located near all exits in an easy-to-reach place. A fire extinguisher can save your home, putting out a small flame quickly—as long as the operator feels confident about their ability to use one. The PASS technique is a great way to remember how to use it.
- Pull the safety pin out.
- Aim towards the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle.
- Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire to extinguish completely.
An Escape Route and Meeting Place
You must have a plan for escape and a meeting place for your family in case of a fire. You should have two exit paths in every room (windows and doors) and fire ladders in case of second story windows.
Make sure you talk to your family members often about what to do if the smoke alarm goes off and there is a fire in the home. The family meeting place should be a safe distance away from your home, like a community mailbox or a neighbor’s house. Children in the home should know how and when to call 911.
Call 2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. for chimney and fireplace services in Minneapolis, MN. Regular chimney cleaning can help reduce your chances of a home fire.