Protecting Yourself & Your Home

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

Here are eight tips you should know, plus resources to consult to learn more about protecting yourself and your home.

1. Maintain smoke alarms

• Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.
• For better protection, smoke alarms should be interconnected so that if one sounds, they signal alerts throughout the home.
• Dust or vacuum your smoke alarms at least once a year when the battery is replaced. Replace the alarm itself every 10 years.
• If you are deaf or hard of hearing, install a smoke alarm that uses a flashing light or vibration to signal smoke.

2. Use caution with open flames

• Only burn candles when you are in the room, and use sturdy candleholders.
• Smoke outdoors only, and use deep, sturdy ashtrays. Make sure butts are cool before throwing them out.
• Avoid any open flame where medical oxygen is being used.

3. Cook safely

• Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove to prevent them from being knocked off.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stove or broiling.
• Keep a pot lid nearby while cooking. If a fire starts in a pan, you can slide the lid over and turn off the burner.

4. Heat your home safely

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet from radiators, space heaters, fireplaces, woodstoves and furnaces.
• Use a space heater with an automatic shutoff in case it tips over or overheats.
• Turn off and unplug heaters when you leave your home or go to bed.
• Make sure chimneys are cleaned professionally every year.

5. Plan your escape route

• Know and practice two ways out of every room in your home.
• Clear clutter that might block your escape route, and make sure all doors and windows open with ease.
• Practice a fire escape drill at home at least twice a year.
• If you use a wheelchair or envision having a problem escaping a fire, plan ahead and let your fire department and neighbors know.

6. Practice electrical safety

• Have a licensed electrician check your electrical system if you frequently have blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.
• Replace outlets if plugs don't fit snugly.
• Don't overload electrical circuits, and avoid using extension cords. Have an electrician install additional outlets if needed.
• Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the light fixture.
• Keep bathroom fans clean of lint and dust, which can cause the motor to overheat and ignite.

7. Sign up for emergency alerts

• Sign up for alerts to receive calls or texts about impending storms or wildfires. Lightning can cause house fires.
• In the event of a disaster, heed evacuation orders and advice of officials.

8. Protect yourself in case of fire

• Stay calm, get out fast and stay outside the home.
• Feel the doorknob and cracks around a door before opening. If you feel heat, don't open it. Closed doors prevent the spread of fire.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit.
• If you can't get out, call 911. Stay where you are and signal for help with a flashlight or brightly colored object through a window.

KEEP CALM AND CALL SERVPRO OF SANTA ROSA COUNTY 850-939-4700

Source: U.S. Fire Administration