- Change smoke detector batteries once a year.
- Test smoke detectors monthly.
- Replace smoke detectors that are more than 10 years old.
- Ensure smoke detectors are installed outside and inside sleeping areas.
- Plan and practice an Exit Drill in the Home at least twice a year.
- Have two exits from each room.
- Never block exits.
- Have a meeting place outside the home.
- Ensure everyone knows not to go back inside once they have escaped a burning building.
- In case of fire, call 911 from a neighbors’ house.
- Have the fire place flue cleaned and checked annually by a professional
- Never leave a fire burning unattended.
- Have gas fired appliances cleaned and inspected by a professional.
- Do not leave cars running in the garage.
- Install a Carbon Monoxide alarm according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Ensure extension cords and multi-plug adapters are used as little as possible.
- Extension cords should not be tacked or nailed to the walls.
- Never leave food on the stove unattended.
- Keep matches, lighters, and other smoking materials out of reach of children.
- Never leave candles burning unattended and keep them out of reach of children.
- Do not smoke in bed.
Talk with you family about your emergency plan and practice it regularly. Practice will reduce fear and help to ensure a proper response during and emergency. It is imperative that everyone in the family recognizes the sound of a smoke alarm and can respond quickly. Seconds count in an emergency.
