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  • Home Safety: Winter Fire Safety Tips

    Friday, November 20, 2020   /   by Vinny Steo

    Home Safety: Winter Fire Safety Tips

    relaxing-fireplace.jpg

    Winter is around the corner and we are all starting to heat up our homes. Several things you can do as a parent to prepare in case of a disaster. One, every home should have at least one fire extinguisher rated for all types of fires (look for A-B-C rating on the label). Also, check the gauge on the extinguisher annually to make sure the extinguisher is charged.


    Have a fire escape plan: Every bedroom should have at least two exit plans. Each upper-level bedroom should have a rope ladder near the window for emergency exits. Review what to do in case of a fire. A family should always have a meeting place outside the house, a mailbox for example, where everyone can be accounted for. You do not want firefighters going into a dangerous situation when one of your children could be waiting in the backyard.


    Always check your fire and CO detectors. Replace batteries in each smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detector, and then vacuum them with a soft brush to keep dust out of them. Test the unit by pressing the test button and also holding a smoke source like a blown-out candle near the unit. Smoke detectors should be installed on every floor of your home.


    Lastly, there should be some general cleanup in your house. This includes keeping clear space around floor heaters, and any other heat-generating appliance. Throwing away piles of old magazines and newspapers will also, help slow down the spread of fire.


    Doing these things will not necessarily prevent a fire, but it can give you and your family life-saving seconds to get out of the house!