Fire Safety & Prevention Resources
Get Out Safely:
A Factsheet on Fire Escape Planning
Source:
United States Fire Administration
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.
The members of Centerville Fire Rescue believe that having a sound escape plan will greatly reduce fire deaths and protect you and your family's safety if a fire occurs.
HAVE A SOUND FIRE ESCAPE PLAN
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.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS:
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 or using an Underwriter's Laboratory (UL)
approved collapsible ladder for escape from upper story windows. Make sure
that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly and that security
bars can be properly opened. Also, practice feeling your way out of the house
in the dark or with your eyes closed.
Security Bars Require Special Precautions
Security bars may help to keep your family safe
from intruders, but they can also trap you in a deadly fire! Windows and doors
with security bars must have quick release devices to allow them to be opened
immediately in an emergency. Make sure everyone in the family understands
and practices how to properly operate and open locked or barred doors and
windows.
Immediately Leave The Home
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 and keep your mouth covered. The smoke
contains toxic gases which can disorient you or, at worst, overcome you.
Never Open Doors That Are Hot To The Touch
When you come to a closed door, use the back of
your hand to feel the top of the door, the doorknob, and the crack between
the door and door frame to make sure that fire is not on the other side. If
it feels hot, use your secondary escape route. Even if the door feels cool,
open it carefully. Brace your shoulder against the door and open it slowly.
If heat and smoke come in, slam the door and make sure it is securely closed,
then use your alternate escape route.
Designate A Meeting Place Outside and Take Attendance
Designate a meeting location away from the home,
but not necessarily across the street. For example, meet under a specific
tree or at the end of the driveway or front sidewalk to make sure everyone
has gotten out safely and no one will be hurt looking for someone who is already
safe. Designate one person to go to a neighbor's home to phone the fire department.
Once Out, Stay Out
Remember to escape first, then notify the fire
department using the 911 system or proper local emergency number in your area.
Never go back into a burning building for any reason. Teach children not to
hide from firefighters. If someone is missing, tell the firefighters. They
are equipped to perform rescues safely.
Finally;
Having working smoke alarms installed on every level
of your home dramatically increases your chances of survival. Smoke alarm
batteries need to be tested every month and changed with new ones at least
once a year. Also, consider replacing the entire smoke alarm every ten years,
or as the manufacturer guidelines recommend.
For more information contact us we would be happy to speak with you and answer any questions you have. Contact us by e-mail at Fire Safety Request
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