Fire safety in the home

   SMOKE ALARMS 

TURNING AN ENEMY INTO A FRIEND

Smoke Alarms should be fitted in every home. Most fires happen at night while people are asleep. When there's fire, smoke will actually put sleeping people into a deeper sleep, it will not wake them. By installing smoke alarms you will have early warning devices which give you time to act before you and your family are overcome by dangerous smoke and fumes.

Two smoke alarms, properly located, would suit the average home - We would urge all families to have heat detectors in the kitchen and smoke alarms in all other parts of the house. You should only install smoke alarms manufactured to recognized standards.

Make sure that all smoke alarms are properly installed and maintained. Test the alarms and their batteries regularly. If you are not sure GO DO IT NOW !!

Evacuation Drill

At regular unannounced intervals, raise an alarm using for example a bell or whistle. Everyone then proceeds to carry out pre-assigned tasks which may be either to:

    1.    Look after children or the elderly and get them out safely.

    2.    Close doors after you to minimize damage.

    3.    Take a "Roll Call" at your pre-arranged meeting point outside.

    4.    Phone 911 and ask for the Fire Department.

Clearly not all these tasks can be done by one person. Sit down with your family today and make step-by-step plans, and delegate specific tasks for emergency escape from fire.

When you are out -- stay out !!! Everyone should know at least two possible ways out of the house from all rooms, especially the bedrooms. The stairs are your primary escape route and must not be blocked by heaters, laundry baskets or chairs/prams etc. Once downstairs, exit via the front or back door and everyone meet at one pre planned point outside. many people have died returning to a burning building thinking there was someone still inside when in fact they were out but in a different location.    When you are out -- stay out!

Only as a last resort should upstairs windows, your secondary escape route, be used, and if so, one over a garage or shed is preferable. Ensure that at least one window upstairs is capable of being opened horizontally especially if you have single or double glazing fitted. If you suspect that the landing is alight, test the door for heat. Since heat rises, feel the door as high as you can. If it is warm, use your alternative escape route --- if not, brace your shoulder against it and open it cautiously. Be ready to close it if heat and smoke rush in.

  Electricity

Electricity does many wonderful things about the house. Most people would find it hard to imagine life without it, yet it is very dangerous, if abused in any way. Here are some guidelines to follow and hopefully your home will be a safer place:

• Never repair blown fuses always replace them with a fuse of the correct strength.
• Be extra careful with electric fires - which must have a guard fitted - when young children and the elderly are in the room.
• Place heaters well away from curtains and furniture.
• Take care with electric blankets and use them strictly in accordance with the instructions. Check them frequently for wear and ensure that blankets are inspected by the manufacturer/agent at least once every two years.
• Don't overload sockets: One socket = One plug. Is a good rule.
• Reduce the risk of fires in your home by the installation of a circuit breaker safety device.
• Get a qualified electrician to carry out Repairs/Alterations, don't take chances.
• If in doubt, consult your local qualified electrician for advice.
• Remember to Switch off and unplug all appliances not in use during the night.
• Read and carry out all instructions on equipment BEFORE using.
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  Night-time Check-list

  It is especially important to make a final check around the house before retiring at night. The following checks and precautions are recommended as a minimum

  • Switch off all oil and gas household appliances.
  • Unplug electrical appliances not in use.
  • Check that the fire is low - always place the spark guard in front of it.
  • Empty all ashtrays into the fire or suitable metal container.
  • Check that smoldering cigarettes have not fallen on or underneath furniture or carpets/rugs.
  • Check between the cushions/armrest for remote controls these can create a heat source if the buttons are jammed in.
  • Close doors to all rooms, this will assist in reducing the spread of fire should fire break out after you have gone to bed.
  • Take care with electric blankets and use them strictly in accordance with the instructions.
  • If you have missed something, no problem, The Smoke Alarm will assist in early warning !! 

  You have a smoke alarm, don't you ??  Pleasant Dreams