Fire Protection at Home
Introduction
It is an important
fact that there are more fatalities at home due to fire or smoke inhalation than criminal
attacks in the home. All family members should be aware of potential problems, and the
precautionary steps to take.
Fire safety and
awareness is an important part of safe-guarding your home and family. The aim is not to
create anxiety, but, to generate fire safety attitudes and habits whereby every family
member and house guest will benefit.
Your spouse or
partner should be orientated and trained in proper procedures to take in all fire
emergency situations. This will greatly assist in providing safety awareness to all other
individuals who live or visit your home.
Many people are
unaware that whilst asleep they are unable to smell anything and the likelihood of
being able to prevent injury by smelling smoke while asleep is not possible.
Install 24 Hr.
smoke detectors connected to your burglar alarm between all sleeping and living areas.
Locate a fire
extinguisher between the bedroom areas and the kitchen.
Make sure
designated windows and doors can open easily from the inside.
Designate fire
exits and ensure all family members and guests are aware of them.
Do not allow
smoking or lit candles in the bedrooms.
Do not allow the
family or guests to get into bed with any type of heater alight. When using a heater that
requires lighting, make sure there is a plentiful supply of fresh air to prevent carbon
monoxide poisoning and oxygen depletion.
Do not leave a
room unattended that has a gas appliance alight.
Do not replace a
blown fuse or circuit breaker with the incorrect rating.
Do not leave an
open fire unattended and always ensure the spark guard is covering the flame.
Have your chimney
cleaned every winter before re-using the open fire.
Make a fire
evacuation plan for your home, and make sure all family members
practice it
at least once a year.
While staying away from home, check
the fire exit route is useable by going all the way along it, until you get outside.