It is important to improve fire safety at home for elders and small children. The best way to improve this is by implementing 6 easy steps that will help you do just that!
1) Install a Smoke Detector
Fire is one of the leading causes of death in households due to its high risk for injury or death. It’s important that you install a smoke alarm close to every bedroom, and ensure each alarm has an up-to-date battery (or have them programmed to work on low power).
What are some common questions? What type should I get? How do I know if my home needs one installed? Where should I place it? Is there anything else I need to keep in mind when purchasing a new smoke detector?
Test all smoke detectors once a month and change batteries twice each year.
2) Fire Extinguisher
Did you know that the most common cause of death in fires is due to smoke inhalation? The best way to avoid this is by installing a fire extinguisher at your home. This makes it easier for you and your family members to put out small fires before they become bigger ones. A fire extinguisher can be purchased from any hardware store or online.
How do I install one? You should place the extinguisher on each level of the house; preferably near an exit door, but not too close so as to obstruct escape routes if necessary. You also need a space nearby where someone could pick up the unit and use it without being impeded by furniture or other items. It’s important that you read all instructions that come with the unit. Once you’re done, read them again and test it out to make sure that it works!
Try to avoid this is by installing a fire extinguisher at your home. This makes it easier for you and your family members to put out small fires before they become bigger ones. A fire extinguisher can be purchased from any online store that comes with training and installation guidance.
3) Electrical Equipment
The Home Office recommends that you never leave electrical equipment unattended when it is plugged in, even if you are just going to the loo. This summer has been hot and with this being a fire risk season, what would happen if your clothes were too close to an electric heater? It’s understandable that sometimes we forget about our devices when they’re charging but please remember – plugging them in could be putting your family at risk. Make sure there are no cords running across doorways or under carpets.
4) Check on Cooking Appliances
The power is out and it’s dark outside. You know you should turn off the stove, but it seems like such a hassle to go into the kitchen and find the switch. In an emergency situation, this can be a dangerous mistake that could lead to serious injury or death. There are many common items in your home that produce heat when they’re turned on – think of microwaves, computers, even lamps! It’s important to remember what these appliances look like so you don’t accidentally touch them while searching for a light source in the dark. Make sure all appliances are unplugged and turned off before bedtime so if there is ever a fire at your house, you’ll have time to escape safely with your loved ones!
Never leave cooking unattended – if in doubt use a timer instead. And finally, never use home appliances or devices as a light source, even if it is just for a short period of time.
5) An Escape Plan
Have an escape plan ready in case there is a fire; where do you go? Who will help? It is your responsibility to make sure you have an escape plan during a fire. Do not wait until there’s smoke filling up your house and it’s too late to get out. If you can’t remember how to do this, print off this article and put it somewhere safe so that you know what steps are needed when there’s a fire. The escape route could be blocked by items like furniture or other objects, but if you’ve been smart enough to think about these things beforehand, then you won’t need any of them blocking the way!
Elderly and children should be given priority during an evacuation. That’s why they’re the first to leave in case of a fire, as well as being protected by exit signs that are more visible for them. It’s important to make sure there is nothing blocking their way out, such as furniture or other objects which could impede their route.
DoctorAlert personal alarms can give you and your family peace of mind, DoctorAlert will notify your loved ones and provide any necessary assistance during an emergency. You can purchase an alarm today with free delivery the next day*. All you have to do is call us now on 0800 520 0168 or visit our website for more information.
