Fire Prevention

Family's Home Safety Action Plan

Action 1

Make the first Saturday of each month "Smoke Alarm Saturday!"

• Smoke alarms should be installed in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area and one every level of the home, including the basement. 
• Test all of your smoke alarms by pushing the test button. If it makes a loud "beep, beep, beep" sound, you should knot it's working. If there is no sound or the sound is low, it's time to replace the battery.
• If your smoke alarm makes a "chirp," that means it needs a new batter. Change the battery right away. 
• Make sure everyone in the home knows the sound of the alarm and what to do when it sounds (see Action 2).

Action 2

Develop a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year! Having a home fire escape plan will make sure everyone knows what to do when the smoke alarm sounds so they can get out safely.

• Draw a map of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors.
• Children, older adults and people with disabilities may need assistance to wake up and get out. Make sure they are a part of the plan.
• Make sure all escape routes are clear and that doors and windows open easily.
• Pick an outside meeting space (something permanent like a neighbor's house, a light post, mailbox or stop sign) that is a safe distance in front of your home. 
• Everyone in the home should know the fire department's emergency number and how to call once they are safely outside
• Practice! Practice! Practice! Practice day and nighttime fire drills. Share your home escape plans with overnight guests.

Remember these tips

• When you hear a beep, get on your feet! Get out and stay out. Call 9-1-1 from your outside meeting place.
• Hear a chirp, make a change! A chirping alarm needs attention. Replace the batteries or the entire alarm if it is older than 10-years-old. If you don't remember how old it is, replace it.

Learn more about fire safety on the National Fire Prevention Association website.