Many of the fires that occur in the home can be avoided in most cases by simply being a little more careful and taking a few simple safety measures. Especially, it is important that all family members stay alert and make good use of appliances and heat sources that are used daily in homes.
Strategically placed heaters
The heaters require sufficient space, and most fires started by heaters start because the heating unit is placed too close to something that can easily catch fire. Leave one meter separation between the heater and anything else you have in the room.
Be alert and careful
Never leave the stove unattended when you are cooking something. Moreover, the electric cables can wear out, crack and split, leaving them at risk. Monitor cables in your home every month, especially if you have children or pets. Replace worn or broken cords immediately.
Keep burning things safe
Lighters and matches are a curiosity for young children, especially when they see them working. Teach your children the dangers of playing with them and keep them out of reach. Burning cigarettes and ashes can burn for hours before starting a fire. Extinguish all materials properly and do not smoke in bed or other seating areas.
Smoke alarms are a must
Installing smoke detectors in each room and corridors of the house is the easiest way to protect yourself. The fire experts recommend placing smoke detectors in the entrance to each room and in each area. Do not forget the basements and attics, because fire can also start in these areas. Check the alarms monthly and replace batteries. Also, be sure to test your smoke alarm every month. The average life of a smoke detector is ten years, after which it must be replaced.
Get a fire extinguisher
Having a portable fire extinguisher handy (especially in risk areas like the kitchen) will bring greater security to your home. Make sure the fire extinguisher bears the stamp of an independent testing laboratory and that it is in a good working order. Of course, adults need to learn how to use the fire extinguisher while kids should concentrate on leaving the house as soon as possible.
Teach your kids about fire safety
Plan and practice an escape plan with your children. Each room should have two exits available. Prepare a fire drill and make sure everyone in your family knows how to escape the house if necessary. Even though this process might appear to be boring to kids, you have to explain them the importance of fire safety. Teach your children what to do if their clothes catch fire. They need to stop, drop and roll, not run. Face should be covered with hands to protect the skin and lungs, while rolling should be repeated until the fire is extinguished.
In the case of fire, do not panic
The smoke is as dangerous as the flames. Before attempting to open any doors during a fire, check how hot the door handle is. Check baseboards and cracks under the door. Do not try to open the door if the smoke is entering the room from these areas. If the door seems to be safe, open it.
House fires are usually caused by carelessness and the misuse of the heat sources and objects that may end up causing the fire. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to these things. Burns can happen in an instant, whether you are dealing with a simple fire or larger one. Never cover your burns because this alone will retain heat and cause scarring and infection.