Each year, more than 4000 residents of the United States perish and more than 25,000 are injured in fires, many of which could be prevented. Property losses caused by fires ascend to $8.6 billion per year.
To protect yourself, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fires. Fires spread quickly; there is no time to gather valuable objects or using the phone. In only two minutes, a fire can be a life threat. In five minutes, a home can be completely engulfed in flames.
Fire heat and smoke can be more dangerous than flames. Inhaling hot air may burn the lungs. Fires produce toxic gases that may cause disorientation and somnolence. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you could fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxia is the main cause of death by fires, exceeding burns in a three to one ratio.
House and building fires
A fire may engulf an entire structure in a matter of minutes. Understanding the basic characteristics of fire and learning appropriate safety practices might be the key to surviving a house or building fire.
Install smoke detectors.
Check them every month and replace the batteries at least once a year.
Elaborate and practice an escape plan. Ensure that all your family members know what to do in case of a fire.
• Draw a layout with escape routes in each room. Select a safe reunion place outside the house.
• Practice alerting the rest of your home members. It is a good idea to have a bell and a flashlight in each bedroom for this purpose.
• Practice evacuating the building blindfolded. In case of a real fire, it is possible that the amount of smoke generated by the fire may make seeing impossible.
• Practice keeping close to the ground when escaping.
• Touch every door before opening it. If the door is hot, find another way to exit.
• Learn to stop, drop to the ground and roll if your clothes catch fire.
Place emergency numbers near the phones.
However, you should know that if a fire threatens your home, you should not make calls to emergency services from the house. It is best to exit first and call from elsewhere.
Buy folding ladders at hardware stores and practice how to use them.
Install A-B-C fire extinguishers in the house and teach the family members how to use them.
Do not store flammable materials in enclosed areas or near a heat source.
When cooking Keep the stove area clean and free from flammable materials such as bags, boxes and other appliances. If a fire is produces, place a lid on the burning container or use a fire extinguisher. Be aware. If you move the container, you may cause the fire to spread. Never pour water to extinguish fire caused by grease.
Check electric wiring.
• Change damaged or torn wires.
• Ensure that no wires run under the rugs, over nails and in heavy traffic areas. Do not overcharge outlets or extension cords.
• The outlets should have covers and no exposed wires.
• Only buy appliances and electric devices with a label indicating that they have been inspected by a testing lad, such as Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM).
Get in touch with the local fire department or Red Cross chapter to request more information about fire prevention.
