Always Plan Ahead For Emergencies
Talk to someone about what you should do incase of fire. Your family,
friends, the fire department or a social service agency should help
you develop an escape plan you can practice. And be sure to practice
with the people who live nearby. Their assistance and appropriate actions
may be critical in helping you successfully escape a fire.
Here Are Some Good Ideas....
Try To Live Near An Exit
If you live in an apartment, try to occupy one on the ground floor.
If you're in a two-story house, arrange to sleep on the first floor,
and be sure to have a telephone by your bed. Being closer to the ground
and an exit will facilitate your escape in a fire. If necessary, have
a ramp constructed for emergency exits.
Install Smoke Detectors
Working detectors can mean the critical difference in a fire. Test
your alarms weekly and change batteries at least once a year. Be sure
that you have enough smoke detectors and that they are properly placed.
Dial 911
Make sure your home is clearly numbered and, if you have a disability,
you might let the fire department know about your special needs. In
case of fire, always get out first, if you can, then call the fire department
even if fire fighters have already arrived. If you are trapped inside,
give the dispatcher your exact room location.
Plan Your Escape
You should have at least two ways out of every room. If one is a window,
be sure you know how to open it and make sure it opens easily. If you
live in an apartment, know where the exit stairs are. Never take an
elevator during an emergency - it might take you to the fire, or it
might get stuck!
What To Do In Case Of Fire
Get Out, Stay Out
Go as quickly as possible, leaving all possessions behind. And never
go back in - you may not get back out. Call the fire department from
outside.
Crawl Low In Smoke
If you can, crawl low while you exit. Smoke rises and cleaner air is
nearer the floor.
Stop, Drop and Roll
If your clothes catch fire, let yourself down and roll. This will smother
the fire. If you have physical limitations, someone else may need to
smother the fire with a blanket or rug. Fanning the flames with your
hands will not help - in fact, your hands may be severely burned.
Cool A Burn
Your best first aid is cool water which helps prevent further skin
damage. Keep running cool after on burns until the pain stops. Salve
or butter only traps in heat. If charred skin or blisters appear seek
medical attention immediately.
Keep Doors Closed
Always sleep with your bedroom door closed, making sure the smoke alarm
is audible or that you have an emergency light to alert you. If you
hear your detector alarm, smell smoke or suspect fire, feel the door.
If hot, try your other exit; if not, slowly open it but be prepared
to close it if smoke or flames rush in.
If You Are Trapped
Put closed doors between you and smoke. Stuff cracks and cover vents
to keep smoke out. If there is a phone in the rom, call the fire department
and let them know you are trapped. Give them your exact location. Keeping
low, put a wet cloth over your nose and wait at the window, signalling
with sheet or flashlight. Do not break the window.
Stop A Fire Before It Starts
Check Out Appliances
Make sure all plugs and cords are in good condition, and repair or
replace any worn or broken appliances.
Take Care in the Kitchen
Be especially careful in lighting matches or using the stove. Wear
close-fitting sleeves when you cook. If a pan catches fire, smother
it with a lid.
Space Heaters Need Their Space
Keep space heaters at least three feet from everything - especially
you. A slight brush against some models could cause a clothing fire.
Take Care When Smoking
Always have large, deep ashtrays around for smokers. Never empty ashes
into garbage cans or wastebaskets until they're soaked in water. Check
upholstered furniture for dropped cigarettes or matches. Never smoke
in bed or while on medication that might cause drowsiness.
