16
Fire Safety
• The use of alcohol or drugs may also impair one’s ability to
hear the smoke alarm. For maximum protection, a smoke
alarm should be installed in each sleeping area on every
level of a home.
• Although smoke alarms can help save lives by providing an
early warning of a fire, they are not a substitute for an
insurance policy. Home owners, landlords and tenants should
have adequate insurance to protect their lives and property.
Good Safety Habits
Develop and practice a plan of escape!
• Install and maintain Fire extinguishers on every level of the
home and in the kitchen, basement and garage. Know how
to use a fire extinguisher prior to an emergency.
• Make a floor plan indicating all doors and windows and at
least two (2) escape routes from each room. Second story
windows may need an escape ladder.
• Have a family meeting and discuss your escape plan,
showing everyone what to do in case of fire.
• Determine a place outside your home where you all can
meet if a fire occurs.
• Familiarize everyone with the sound of the smoke alarm and
train them to leave your home when they hear it.
• Practice a fire drill at least every six months, including fire
drills at night. Ensure that small children hear the alarm and
wake when it sounds. They must wake up in order to
execute the escape plan. Practice allows all occupants to test
your plan before an emergency. You may not be able to
reach your children. It is important they know what to do.
•
Current studies have shown smoke alarms may not awaken
all sleeping individuals, and that it is the responsibility of
individuals in the household that are capable of assisting
others to provide assistance to those who may not be
awakened by the alarm sound, or to those who may be
incapable of safely evacuating the area unassisted.
