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Prevention/Preparation Back to top
- Insulation
Have your building's electrical system checked and correct any deficiencies before installing insulation. Always keep insulation away from light fixtures and other sources of heat and check to make sure that your insulation complies with local fire and building codes.
- Furnaces
Inspect and clean flues or chimneys on a regular basis to prevent build-ups. A clog in the airflow from your furnace could cause a fire or the accumulation of carbon monoxide in your building.
- Electricity
Repair any worn or frayed electrical cords and do not overload outlets. Do not run extension cords under rugs and carpets or looped over nails or other sharp objects. Use bulbs with wattage at or below the maximum prescribed by light fixture manufacturers. Allow plenty of air space around appliances like televisions, microwaves and computers to prevent overheating.
- Portable/Space Heaters
All space heaters should be kept at least 36 inches from anything flammable and should never be left on in an empty room or overnight. Always supervise children and pets when in the presence of an operating space heater. Most importantly, always read and follow manufacturer's instructions.
- Smoking
If you smoke in your home, never do so in bed and always take proper care when disposing of ashes. Empty ashtrays often to avoid hazardous build-up of flammable materials and douse before emptying into the trash. Keep lighters and matches out of reach of small children. In high-rise buildings, only smoke where permitted.
- Cooking
Do not install curtains or towel racks close to the stove. Keep the stove and oven clean from grease and oil. When cooking, wear form-fitting garments because loose sleeves can catch fire. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen (2A10BC minimum recommended by many fire departments). When grilling, never use gasoline and do not add any lighter fluid once the fire is started. * Attention First-time Parents * When sterilizing baby bottles/nipples on the stovetop, keep a careful eye on the pot. If water boils off, the rubber becomes susceptible to flame and rubber can melt or ignite.
- Clothes Dryers
Keep dryer in clean and working condition to prevent fires. Always keep lint trap cleaned and do not exceed contents recommended by manufacturer. Exhaust hot air safely to the outside of the building.
- Combustibles
Store gasoline and other flammable materials in tight metal containers. Do not use these materials near heat or a pilot. Keep oily, greasy rags in a sealed, labeled, non-glass container. To avoid spontaneous combustion, do not store newspapers or other rubbish in a damp warm place.
- Smoke Detectors
Make sure smoke detectors are approved by a recognized laboratory, install detectors close to all sleeping areas, and consider multiple detectors in buildings with more than one level. Test each unit frequently and replace old batteries to ensure that all units are operational.
- Fire Drills
Plan two different exits from all rooms and choose a remote meeting spot for occupants to gather in the event of a fire. Building evacuation should be practiced at different times of day to make sure that all parties are prepared for an emergency exit.
Fire Scene Guidelines Back to top
- Do not enter the damaged site without clearance from the fire department. Fires can rekindle from smoldering embers or residual heat.
- Make sure that either the fire department or your utility provider has deemed your water, electricity or gas safe to use before restarting.
- Upon reentering the site, watch for structural damage. Ceilings and roofs may be compromised and subject to collapse.
- Food, beverages, and medicine exposed to heat, smoke, soot and water should not be consumed.
- If it is necessary to leave the site unoccupied, notify local police. It may also be necessary to board up openings to discourage vandalism.
- In the event of relocation, notify the following: insurance company/agent, mortgage company, family and friends, employer, children's schools, post office and other delivery services, utility company.
- Contact your local disaster relief service, such as American Red Cross or Salvation Army, for help with immediate needs.
- Ask your insurance agent or company what actions are required of you. Policies may specify how to address the immediate needs of the dwelling, such as covering exposed areas and pumping out water. You may also be required to take inventory of damaged property with quantity and price details.
- Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
- Save all receipts from the time of the fire. These will be necessary for both insurance and income tax claims.
Cleaning Do's and Don'ts Back to top
Do...
- Blow off or brush-vacuum loose smoke particles from upholstery, drapes and carpets.
- Change furnace filter if blower is operating.
- Clean and protect chrome trim on kitchen appliances or bathroom fixtures with a light coating of Vaseline or other oil.
- Open windows for ventilation.
- Empty freezer and refrigerator completely if electricity is off and prop doors open.
- If the heat is off in winter, call a plumber to drain heating and pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks and tubs to prevent freezing.
Do Not...
- Wipe or attempt to wash walls, ceilings or other absorbent surfaces.
- Use upholstered furniture if it can be avoided.
- Use exposed food items or canned goods which have been subjected to excessive heat or smoke.
- Use TV's, stereos or electrical appliances until cleaned and checked.
- Send smoked garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Special procedures are required to fully eliminate smoke odor.
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