October 9-15 is Fire Prevention Week. It’s a good chance to double-check your fire safety measures and evaluate your evacuation plan. It’s especially important as we head into the holiday season, which is often filled with jack-o-lanterns lit with candles, family gathered around the fire place and more.
A safe home is a happy home. Here are some quick tips to safeguard your house or apartment during this Fire Prevention Week:
- Avoid installing smoke alarms near windows.
- Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.
- Test your fire alarms once a month.
- Replace fire alarm batteries once a year. (This week would be a great opportunity!)
- Know where all fire extinguishers are located. Check to see when each fire extinguisher was last inspected and/or charged.
- Identify clear exit routes for your building and two ways to exit each room.
- Ensure all windows can be opened and are operating properly in the event they need to be used as an exit.
Flames, smoke and extreme temperatures can do serious, potentially destructive damage to a home and — worst of all — they can cause life-threatening injuries. With just a few steps, you can help improve your chances of preventing fire altogether.
Learn more about Fire Prevention Week from theNational Fire Protection Association website.