Residential fires occur every 79 seconds. Having working smoke alarms in your home can help save lives! Double your chances of surviving an accidental house fire by following the tips listed below:
- Install a smoke alarm on every level and outside of each bedroom or sleeping area in your home.
- Keep your bedroom doors closed while you are asleep.
- Keep your smoke alarms properly maintained. Test them once a week to ensure they are working properly.
- Every spring and fall when you change your clocks, remember to change your smoke alarm batteries.
- Develop an escape plan and review the plan with all members of the family frequently. Establish a meeting place outside the house for all members of the family to ensure that everyone gets out safely.
- Have at least one carbon monoxide alarm with an audible warning signal installed on every level of your home and in sleeping areas.
- Ensure that fossil fuel-burning appliances are properly installed and working.
- Have your home heating system, chimney and fuel inspected and cleaned by a qualified technician every year.
- Do not burn charcoal inside your house; even in the fireplace.
- Do not use gas grills in confined areas; even in your basement or garage.
- Have gas fireplaces inspected each fall to ensure the pilot light burns safely.
- Keep chimneys clear of bird and squirrel nests, leaves and residue to ensure proper venting.
- Do not operate gasoline-powered engines (i.e. generators) in confined areas such as garages or basements and never leave your car, mower or other vehicle running in an attached garage – even with the door open.
- Do not block or seal shut exhaust flues or ducts for appliances such as water heaters, ranges and clothes dryers.
- Do not use ovens, household appliances or alternative energy sources that run on fossil fuel for heating purposes.
