Publication Date: Friday Oct 17, 1997

Fire safety and prevention

Fire Prevention Week is recognized each year across the United States in commemorating the Great Chicago Fire of Oct. 8, 1871. Its purpose is to heighten awareness about the dangers of fire and ways in which to prevent them. In light of last week's Fire Prevention Week, here are some safety tips to practice in the home:

Have working smoke detectors in all sleeping areas and hallways. Change the batteries at least once a year and test the detector monthly.

Practice exit drills in the home (EDITH is a handy acronym you can use as a reminder) with all family members monthly. Have an escape plan and at least two ways out that are known by all family members.

Have a portable fire extinguisher accessible in the kitchen and garage areas. Replace or have them refilled by a licensed extinguisher contractor following each use. Maintain them annually.

Be aware of all ignition (flame) sources in the home. Practice safety around them at all times.

When smoke from a fire is present in the home, stay low and proceed to a safe exit point. There is more oxygen present near the floor.

If your clothes catch on fire, know how to stop, drop and roll until the fire is out.

If you have security bars on windows of a sleeping area, make sure that they are the type that will open by a release mechanism from the inside. Occupants should know how to open them using the release mechanism.



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