Giving Back and Helping Others
Giving Back and Helping Others On March 29, 2007, I gave birth to my third child, Laurel. She is a wonderfully bright and active child who is about to turn two at the launch...
Fire Safety Checklist from the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms
Install working smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Test and dust each alarm monthly, and change the batteries at least once a year.
Use Smoking Materials Safely
Never smoke in bed, while drowsy, or while under the influence of medication or alcohol. Use large, deep ashtrays for smoking debris, and let the contents cool before you dispose of them.
Pay Attention to Your Cooking
Keep pot handles turned inward, and keep cooking surfaces and surrounding areas free from clutter and grease buildup. Use pot holders and oven mitts. Never lean over a hot burner and avoid wearing loose clothing with flowing sleeves while cooking. Take a reminder with you (or set a timer) if you must leave the kitchen with food cooking on the range top.
Heat Your Home Safely
Have a professional service all heating equipment annually. Keep combustibles and anything that can burn or melt away from all heaters, furnaces, fireplaces, and water heaters. Never use a range or oven to heat your home.
Practice Electrical Safety
Have a professional electrician inspect your home’s electrical wiring system at least every 10 years, and make recommended repairs. Never overload the electrical system.
Plug each appliance directly into its own outlet and avoid using extension cords. Have an electrician install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in rooms where water may be present. Install and maintain electrical appliances according to the manufacturers’ instructions.
Keep Matches and Lighters Away from Children
Store matches and lighters in a locked drawer or a high cabinet away from the reach of children or other youngsters. Make sure lighters are child-resistant.
Know What to Do in Case of Fire
Practice two ways out of every room in your home. Get out as soon as you discover a fire; do not try to fight the fire. Once out of the house, stay out; do not attempt to enter a burning home to gather possessions left behind. Immediately dial 9-1-1 or your local emergency number for help, preferably from a neighbor’s phone.
Source – United States Fire Administration
