Fire

Fire Safety Tips: 

The Red Cross reports that home fires are the most common disaster nationwide.  Fires kill more Americans each year than all natural disasters combined.  If you see fire as the enemy, then consider George Washington’s quote:  “Experience teaches us that it is much easier to prevent an enemy from lodging themselves than it is to dislodge them after they have got possession.”  In other words, the best way to treat home fires is to prevent them before they occur.

Avoid unattended cooking since this is a main cause of fire.  Keep pot handles turned inwards to deter young children from grabbing at them.  Wear short sleeves that are unlikely to catch fire.

Smoking is also a leading cause of home fires.  Never smoke while you are in bed or drowsy.  Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach of children.  Be careful when emptying ashtrays into the trash.

Electrical hazards include frayed cords and wires, and space heaters can also be dangerous.

Important steps you can take to prevent fires or fire damage:

• Install smoke alarms on every floor of your home and check them regularly.
• Have a fire extinguisher and, if possible, a sprinkler system.
• Keep important, irreplaceable documents in a fireproof safe or container.

For more extensive tips, check here:

Federal Emergency Management Agency

 http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/fire.shtm

Red Cross Preparedness Guide

http://www.oc-redcross.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=Ckw8sXdpX4c%3d&tabid=82