Install and Maintain Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors warn you of fire in time to let you escape.
Install them on each level of your home and outside of each
sleeping area. Follow the manufacturer's directions, and
test once a week. Replace batteries twice a year, or when
the detector chirps to signal that the battery is dead.
Don't ever take the battery out for other uses!
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Plan and Practice Your escape
If fire breaks out in your home, you must get out fast. With
your family, plan two ways out of every room. Fire escape
routes must not include elevators, which might take you
right to the fire! Choose a meeting place outside where
everyone should gather. Once you are out, stay out! Have the
whole family practice the escape plan at least twice a year.
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Space Heaters Need space
Keep portable space heaters at least 3 feet (1 meter) from
paper, curtains, furniture, clothing, bedding, or anything
else that can burn. Never leave heaters on when you leave
home or go to bed, and keep children and pets well away from
them.
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Be Careful Cooking
Keep cooking areas clear of combustibles, and don't leave
cooking unattended. Keep your pot's handles turned inward so
children won't knock or pull them over the edge of the
stove. If grease catches fire, carefully slide a lid over
the pan to smother the flames, then turn off the burner.
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A Match is a Tool for Adults
In the hands of a child, matches or lighters are extremely
dangerous. Store them up high where kids can't reach them,
preferably in a locked cabinet. And teach your children from
the start that matches and lighters and lighters are tools
for adults, not toys for kids. If children find matches,
they should tell an adult immediately.
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Use Electricity Safely
If an appliance smokes or begins to smell unusual, unplug it
immediately and have it repaired. Check all your electrical
cords, and replace any that are cracked or frayed. If you
use extension cords, replace any that are cracked or frayed;
and don't overload them or run them under rugs. Remember
that fuses and circuit breakers protect you from fire: don't
tamper with the fuse box or use fuses of an improper size.
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Cool a Burn
If someone gets burned, immediately place the wound in cool
water for 10 to 15 minutes to ease the pain. Do not use
butter on a burn, as this could prolong the heat and further
damage the skin. If burn blisters or chars, see a doctor
immediately.
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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,
and roll over and over to smother the flames. Cover your
face with your hands to protect your face and lungs.
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Crawl Low Under Smoke
If you encounter smoke using your primary exit, use your
alternate route instead. If you must exit through smoke,
clean air will be several inches off the floor. Get down on
your hands and knees, and crawl to the nearest safe exit.
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Plan and practice Your Escape
If fire breaks out in your home, you must get out fast. With
your family, plan two ways out of every room. Fire escape
routes must not include elevators, which might take you
right to the fire! Choose a meeting place outside where
everyone should gather. Once you are out, stay out! Have the
whole family practice the escape plan at least twice a year.
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