From the USFA “Tribute to Heroes” campaign

SMOKE ALARMS

· Have a working smoke alarm on each level of your home and outside bedrooms.

· Test smoke alarms monthly and change batteries at least once every year.

· Consider buying a lithium battery powered smoke alarm, which may last up to ten years with no battery change.

· Install smoke alarms away from air vents.

· Install smoke alarms on the ceiling or wall, at least 4 inches from 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 your household and practice often.

· Know two ways to exit from every room in your home.

· Make sure 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 household members outside. Never re-enter a burning building.

· Escape first and then call for emergency assistance.

FIRE SAFETY WALK THROUGH

· Keep clothes, blankets, curtains and other combustibles at least three feet from space heaters.

· Place space 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.