Fire Safety Tips   

• Place smoke detectors near bedrooms, and on every floor. 
• Test the batteries weekly 
• Don't place them near air vents 

• Replace worn cords. 
• Don't run cords under rugs. 
• Don't overload outlets. 

• Don't use an extension cord on space heaters. 
• Unplug heaters when you are not using them. 
• Keep heaters a safe distance from furniture and curtains. 
• Do not dry your clothes, gloves, or other items on the heater. 

• Make sure your family has an escape plan. 
• Practice the escape plan every six months. 
• Never go back into a burning building. 
• Know when to call 911. 

  3.Get everyone out as quickly as possible. Don't try to pick up valuables or possessions. Make your way out as safely as possible and try not to panic.    
   
  4.Plan your escape route now. Don't wait until a fire starts.    
   
  5.Telephone the fire brigade on 999 from a neighbours house or the nearest phone box. Clearly state the address of the fire.    
   
  6.Never go back into your home until a fire officer has told you it is safe.  

What to do if you're cut off by fire.   
It's not easy, but try to remain calm. Save your energy to help you survive.    

  1.If you are prevented from getting out because of flames or smoke, close the door nearest to the fire and use towels or sheets to block any gaps. This will help stop smoke spreading into the room.    
   
  2.Go to the window. If the room becomes smoky, go down to floor level - it's easier to breathe because the smoke will rise upwards.    
   
  3.Open the window, try to attract the attention of others who can alert the fire brigade. Wait for the fire brigade, they should arrive in a matter of minutes.    
   
  4.If you are in immediate danger, drop cushions or bedding to the ground to break your fall from the window.   

  5.Get out feet first and lower yourself to the full length of your arms before dropping.  

What is a smoke detector?   

Smoke alarms, or smoke detectors as they are sometimes known, are small devices, about the size  
of a hand. They are fitted to the ceiling and are able to detect fires in their earliest stages and sound a  
loud warning alarm. This alarm can give you those precious few minutes of warning time which will  
help get you and your family out safely.   

Choosing a smoke detector.   

There are many types of alarm on the market and they cost . You can buy them at most hardware and electrical shops and some supermarkets. Always look for an alarm which  
conforms to the US Standard.  

Should you have more than one smoke alarm?   

If you live in a flat or bungalow, one smoke alarm should be enough to provide you with early warning or fire. If your home has more than one storey, it is best to fit an alarm on each floor. For extra protection you can fit alarms in any room where you think a fire may start, eg the lounge or  
bedroom. Do not fit an alarm in the kitchen or bathroom, as the steam or cooking fumes may trigger the alarm. Cigarette smoke will not normally set off an alarm. In some cases you may be able to link more than one alarm together so that it one senses smoke they will all sound an alarm. You should check with an electrician before trying to link the alarms yourself.   

Where to place your smoke detector.   

Smoke alarms are simply screwed into the ceilings and should be fitted as close to the centre of the room as possible, but at least 12 inches away from any wall or light fitting. You should always make sure that your alarm is fitted in a place where it can be heard throughout your home - particularly when you are asleep. If your home is on one level, you should fit the alarm in the  
hallway between the living and sleeping areas. If your home has more than one storey, the best place to fit it is at the bottom of the staircase, although for extra protection you should consider fitting a second alarm on the upstairs landing too.   

Maintaining your smoke detector.   

Smoke alarms need very little maintenance. A few minutes of your time each year will ensure that your alarm is working and could help save the lives of you and your family.   

     Once a month  
     You should check the battery by pressing the test button. Test the sensor by holding a recently extinguished candle or taper under the alarm.   

     Once a year  
     Change the battery in the alarm. Make a note of the date of the change. Vacuum the inside of the alarm to ensure that dust isn't blocking the sensor chamber.   

Smoke detectors for people with a hearing impairment   

Many people whose hearing is not severely impaired are still able to hear a conventional smoke alarm. It is a good idea to link two or more alarms. This way smoke detected in the living room will  
set off another alarm in the bedroom. An electrician will be able to advise you about linking the alarms.   

For people who would not be able to hear a conventional smoke alarm there are special devices available which make use of a vibrating pad or flashing light instead of the auditory signal. The vibrating pad alarms are particularly useful for blind-deaf people.  
 

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