THE DANGER
* Over 6,000 deaths occur in homes each year.
* Most people die from SMOKE
and toxic gases rather than the fire itself.
* Many never even wake up.
MOST FIRE DEATHS COULD BE PREVENTED
* Protect yourself and your family by:
* Purchasing, installing and maintaining one or
more SMOKE DETECTORS in your home
to wake you when the fire starts.
* Developing and practicing an ESCAPE PLAN to enable
you to get out
safely.
PURCHASE A SMOKE DETECTOR
* A smoke detector is a fire alarm that buzzes when
it detects smoke,
warning you in time to escape.
WHAT KIND?
* Smoke detectors can be either house current or
battery operated. Either
kind can do a good job.
* Make sure the model you choose has been listed
by a nationally
recognized testing laboratory.
HOW MUCH?
* A smoke detector may be purchased at most retail stores for about $10.00- $30.00.
HOW MANY?
* There should be a least one smoke detector in every
household. Additional
detectors will significantly increase
your chances of survival.
INSTALLATION IS SIMPLE
*If you can handle a screwdriver, you can install most smoke detectors.
WHERE?
* Smoke detectors should be placed on the ceiling
or high on a wall near the
bedrooms. This enables the detector
to sense the smoke as it approaches
the sleeping area.
* Locate your smoke detector away from air outlet
vents.
* Call your local fire department for advice on
the best place to install your
detectors.
HOW?
* Battery-operated and "plug-in" electric detectors
can be attached directly
to the ceiling or wall.
* "Wired-in" electric detectors are somewhat more
difficult to install and may
require an electrician.
KNOW HOW TO ESCAPE
* Your smoke detector will awaken you, but you may
not be thinking clearly.
* You should practice escaping before an emergency
strikes.
WHY?
* Once a fire has started, it spreads rapidly. You
may have only seconds to
get out.
* Normal exits from bedrooms may be blocked
by smoke or fire. It is
important everyone knows
exactly what to do.
IDENTIFY ESCAPE ROUTES
*Plan two exits from every room. Second story
windows may need a rope
or chain ladder to enable occupants
to escape safely.
* Choose a meeting place outside the home so you'll
know everyone has
escape
PRACTICE ESCAPING
*Practice allows you to test your plan before
a real emergency. You may
not be able to reach your children!
It is important that they know exactly
what to do.
MAINTENANCE IS IMPORTANT
* Your smoke detector must be maintained properly
to provide you and
your family with protection.
HOW?
* Replace batteries and bulbs according to manufacturer's
instructions.
*Battery-operated units do require somewhat more
maintenance, since
batteries must be replaced.
*Dust the grillwork of your detector.
* Test your detector periodically according to the
manufacturer's instructions.
PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM FIRE
1.PURCHASE one or more smoke detectors.
2.INSTALL your detectors properly.
3.IDENTIFY escape routes and PRACTICE ESCAPING.
4.MAINTAIN your detectors.