3 Important Components of a Fire Safety Plan

3/31/2022 (Permalink)

Most extensive home fires are completely preventable with the simple use of a smoke alarm.

Fire Safety Plan

Nearly every home in America has experienced a fire at some point in its history, and every year, over 350,000 house fires occur. Those are sobering statistics and important reasons why everyone should have a fire safety plan. These three components —detection devices (including smoke alarms and heat sensors), a fire escape plan and fire extinguishers not only can protect your property and belongings but can save your life.

1. Detection Devices

Install a battery-operated or wired-in smoke detector in every bedroom, in the halls outside sleeping areas, and on every level of your home, including the basement. Though you can certainly place a smoke detector near the kitchen, a heat detector works better in the kitchen itself, because it won't be accidentally tripped by normal cooking fumes. The same is true for garages, attics and utility rooms, where electrical fires can start quickly. In these areas, a heat alarm works faster and more effectively than a smoke alarm.

2. Fire Escape Plan

A pre-determined, rehearsed escape route is an integral part of every fire safety plan. Upper bedrooms should each have a fire ladder in case the doorways are blocked by flames and smoke, and every family member should be aware of the closest exit point of every room in the house. Choose a meeting point outside your home in Greenlake, WA, in case everyone needs to take a unique escape route. If possible, install windows that are large enough to easily climb out if needed.

3. Fire Extinguisher

Keep fire extinguishers in the kitchen, basement, near your utility or furnace room, and in the vicinity of a gas grill, if you have one. Every member of the family should know where the extinguishers are and how to use them.
Most extensive home fires are completely preventable with the simple use of a smoke alarm, but in the unfortunate event, a fire does occur, have a safety plan in place. It is better to need the assistance of a fire remediation service to clean up damage to your home than a doctor to treat injured loved ones.