Fire Safety Tips for Your Home

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Courtesy of the City of Dallas Fire Department

SMOKE ALARMS

? Have a working smoke alarm on each level of your home and outside bedrooms.
? Test smoke alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
? Install smoke alarms away from air vents.
? Install smoke alarms on the ceiling or wall, at least 4 inches from the corners.
? When affixed to walls, smoke alarms should be between 4 and 12 inches from the ceiling.
? Never disable or remove smoke alarm batteries.

ESCAPE PLANNING

? Develop a fire escape plan with the members of your household and practice often.
? Know two ways to exit from every room in your home.
? Make sure that safety bars on windows can be opened from inside your home.
? Crawl low, under smoke.
? Feel closed doors. If hot, use another exit.
? Identify a place to meet outside in case of fire. Never re-enter a burning building.
? Escape first. Then call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.

FIRE SAFETY

? Keep clothes, blankets, curtains and other combustibles at least three feet from portable heaters.
? Place portable heaters where they will not tip over easily.
? Have chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a professional.
? Clear the area around the hearth of debris, flammables and decorative materials.
? Always use a metal mesh screen with fireplaces and leave glass doors open while burning a fire.
? Keep clothes, towels and other combustibles away from stove burners.
? Never leave cooking unattended.
? Be sure your stove and small appliances are off before going to bed.
? Check for frayed wires and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
? Never overload electrical sockets.
? Keep lighters and matches out of the reach of children.
? Never leave cigarettes unattended.
? Never smoke in bed.