Steps to Better Fire Safety at Home

Residential fires are one of the most common emergencies in the United States.    Here are simple ways to be prepared at home in case of a fire!

Make sure you have fire extinguishers in the kitchen, workshop and garage. Choose a multipurpose model that will work on all types of fires.  Remember a fire extinguisher isn't good forever.  Most last 5 to 15 years.

Make sure you have a smoke detector installed on each level of your home. Test every month and replace every 10 years.  Follow the same rules for carbon monoxide detectors.  

If you live in a multi-story home, stash a collapsible fire escape ladder in each upstairs room (under a bed or in a closet) so it's handy if you need it.  Practice with family members on how to use the fire escape ladder.  Have a flashlight handy to help locate the ladder if it is ever needed.

Check out the National Fire Protection Association for more information for consumers, educators and kids!

http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers