Fire and Life Safety Education, Fire Department

Fire and Life Safety Education

Get Out Safely: A Fact Sheet on Fire Escape Planning

More than 4,000 Americans die each year in fires, and more than 25,000 are injured. Deaths resulting from failed emergency escapes are particularly avoidable. In the event of a fire, remember - time is the biggest enemy and every second counts! Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly. In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for a house to fill with thick black smoke and become engulfed in flames. Practice Escaping From Every Room In The Home Practice escape plans every month. The best plans have two ways to get out of each room. If the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke, you will need a second way out. A secondary route might be a window onto an adjacent roof. Also, practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.

When a fire occurs, do not waste any time saving property. Take the safest exit route, but if you must escape through smoke, remember to crawl low, under the smoke.

What to do After you Suffer a Fire in Your House
A guide to assist homeowners after a fire from the NC Department of Insurance and the Office of State Fire Marshall.
Tips from the Sanford Fire Department and USFA
Smoke Alarms
	-Have a working smoke alarm on each level of your home and outside bedrooms. -Test smoke alarms monthly and change batteries at least once every year. -Consider buying a lithium battery powered smoke alarm, which may last up to ten years with no battery change. -Install smoke alarms away from air vents. -Install smoke alarms on the ceiling or wall, at least 4 inches from corners. -When affixed to walls, smoke alarms should be between 4 and 12 inches from the ceiling. -Never disable or remove smoke alarm batteries.
Escape Planning
	-Develop a fire escape plan with your household and practice often. -Know two ways to exit from every room in your home. -Make sure safety bars on windows can be opened from inside your home. -Crawl low, under smoke. -Feel closed doors. If hot, use another exit. -Identify a place to meet household members outside. Never re-enter a burning building. -Escape first and then call for emergency assistance.
Fire Safety Walk Through
	-Keep clothes, blankets, curtains and other combustibles at least three feet from space heaters. -Place space heaters where they will not tip over easily. -Have chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a professional. -Clear the area around the hearth of debris, flammables and decorative materials. -Always use a metal mesh screen with fireplaces and leave glass doors open while burning a fire. -Keep clothes, towels and other combustibles away from stove burners. -Never leave cooking unattended. -Be sure your stove and small appliances are off before going to bed. -Check for frayed wires and do not run cords under rugs or furniture. -Never overload electrical sockets. -Keep lighters and matches out of the reach of children. -Never leave cigarettes unattended. -Never smoke in bed.
For More Information Contact:
The United States Fire Administration Office of Fire Management Programs 16825 South Seton Avenue Emmitsburg, MD 21727 Or visit the USFA website