Every year, thousands of homes catch on fire, resulting in property damage, injury and even death. House fires are a serious threat to families, and it’s important to know how to properly prepare for a house fire. Knowing important information on how to protect your family members from a house fire, including the steps you should take to create a fire escape plan, the importance of installing smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and what to do if the unthinkable happens.
Creating a Fire Escape Plan
The first step in preparing for a house fire is to create a fire escape plan. This plan should include the floor plan of your home, the number of family members, and the location of fire escape ladders, and the quickest escape route. If your home has multiple floors, be sure to include a plan for each level. It’s also important to practice your plan several times a year with your family. This will ensure that everyone knows what to do if a fire starts in your home. Drawing a floor plan and knowing how many minutes to escape you have, are all important aspects to plan for incase of home fires. Plan and practice because you never know what could happen and you want to make sure you avoid injuries or worse, fire deaths.
Installing Smoke Detectors and Fire Extingusihers
Once you have created a fire escape plan, the next step is to install smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in your home. Smoke detectors should be placed on every level of your home, including near sleeping areas, and should be tested monthly to ensure they are working properly. In addition, you should also install fire extinguishers in the kitchen, near any fireplaces, and in other areas where a fire might start. Make sure everyone in the house knows what to do/what it sounds like when the alarms sound. It’s also important to check the expiration date of your fire extinguishers and replace them if necessary.
What to Do if the Unthinkable Happens
If a fire starts in your home, it’s important to remain calm and follow your fire escape plan. Start by alerting the rest of your family and make sure everyone is out of the house, checking behind closed doors. If you can’t escape, stay in a room with the door closed and call the fire department. Remember, you only have a few minutes to escape, so it’s important to act quickly.
Being Prepared
House fires can be devastating, but by following the tips outlined, you can protect your family. Start by creating a fire escape plan and practicing it several times a year with your family. Then, install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers throughout your home. Finally, if a fire does start in your home, remain calm, follow your plan and call the fire department. Following these steps can help reduce the number of home fires and fire deaths each year. Making sure your home is insured and protected is important. Call Health Benefit Services today to discuss home insurance and how your policy could protect you in the event of a fire.
