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Install and maintain smoke detectors
Smoke detectors warn you of a fire in time for you to escape. Install them on
each level of your home and outside of each sleeping area. Test them every month,
following the manufacturer's directions. Replace batteries twice a year, or when ever a
detector chirps to signal that its battery is low. Don't ever borrow detector batteries
for other use - a disabled smoke detector can't save your life! For complete home
protection, consider installing automatic fire sprinklers in addition to smoke detectors.
Plan and practice to escape
If fire breaks out in your home, you have to get out fast! With your family,
plan two ways out of every room. Fire escape routes must not use elevators, which might
take you right to the fire. Choose a meeting place outside where everyone will gather.
Once you are out, stay out! At least twice a year, have the whole family practice the
escape plan.
Smokers need watchers
Carelessly discarded cigarettes are the leading cause of fire deaths in North
America. Never smoke in bed or when you are drowsy. Provide large, deep ashtrays for
smokers and put water on butts before discarding them. Before going to bed or leaving
home, check under and around sofa cushions for smoldering cigarettes.
Be careful while cooking
Never leave cooking unattended. Keep cooking areas clear of combustibles, and
wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook. Keep the handles of your pots turned
inward so the pots can't be knocked or pulled over. If grease catches fire, carefully
slide a lid over the pan to smother the flames, then turn off the burner. Never put foil
or other metals in a microwave oven.
Space heaters need space
Keep portable and space heaters at least 3 feet (1m) from anything that can
burn. Never leave heaters on when you leave home or go to bed, and keep children and pets
well away from them.
Matches and lighters
are tools
In the hands of a child, matches or lighters are deadly. Use child-resistant
lighters, and store all matches and lighters up high where kids can't reach them,
preferably in a locked cabinet. Teach your children from the start that matches and
lighters are tools for adults, not toys for kids. If children find matches or lighters,
they should tell an adult immediately.
Cool a burn
If someone gets burned, immediately place the wound in cool water for 10 to 15
minutes. If the burn blisters or chars, see a doctor immediately.
Use electricity safely
If an appliance smokes or has an unusual smell, unplug it immediately and have
it repaired. Replace any electrical cord that is cracked or frayed. Don't overload
extension cords or run them under rugs. Don't tamper with the fuse box or use fuses of an
improper size.
 Crawl low under smoke
Smoke is dangerous! If you encounter smoke, use an alternate escape route. If
you must exit through smoke, the cleanest air will be 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) above
the floor. Crawl on your hands and knees to the nearest safe exit.
 Stop, Drop and Roll
Everyone should know this rule: If your clothes catch fire, don't run! Stop
where you are, drop to the ground, cover your face with you hands to protect your face and
lungs, and roll over and over to smother the flames.
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