Hi Hoomans!
October is Fire Prevention Month and it’s my favorite month of the year cuz my family at WMVFC likes to share fire prevention tips with all of you!!
Here are some tips my firehouse hoomans want me to share with you to help your home and family stay safe:
- Change your smoke detector batteries (you should upgrade to the 10-year lithium battery model) and furnace filters.
- Test your carbon monoxide detector by unplugging it and plugging it back in. It should “beep.”
- Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher in your kitchen, but don’t keep it next to the stove. The contents do expire so be sure to check the dates to make sure they aren’t expired or they may not work when you need them.
- Make sure your flashlights have batteries, but don’t store the batteries in the flashlight. They will last longer.
- Make sure all power cords are not tangled and are not frayed and that all power outlets have covers. Loose power outlets can cause fires. Phone chargers can too!
- Place phones and other devices on non-combustible surfaces such as a nightstand or countertop during charging.
- Make sure any candles are away from curtains or other materials that could catch fire and never ever leave them lit when no one is home.
- Battery operated candles are the safest – they are pretty too!
- Make a fire escape plan so your family is prepared if there is a fire. Have a meeting place outside and away from the house. A good spot is near the curb or mailbox. Did you know they make fire escape ladders for homes that don’t take up much room, but could save a life?
- Never ever go back into a house that is on fire! Let the firefighters do that! It’s what they train so hard for.
- Teach your kids to never hide under a bed or in a closet if the house catches fire! Explain to them that the firefighters have to find everyone to get everyone out of the house fast!
- Place a sign in the window if you have pets or someone who can’t escape on their own.
- Have a blanket, flashlight and an emergency roadside kit including flares (they make battery-operated ones too!)
- Teach your children how to call 911 and make sure they know their last name, phone number for an emergency, and their home address.
- Teach your children STOP, DROP, and ROLL!
Keep your eye on our Facebook page for other safety tips and ideas!
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