Be Prepared: Fire Prevention & Safety

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Be Prepared: Fires

(3/21/20)

Being prepared in an emergency situation is key for both your safety and those around you, but did you know being prepared for any emergency starts well before the actual emergency?

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained, according to the National Fire Protection Association  (NFPA). Nearly 60% of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms (40%) or no smoke alarms that were working (18%).

In homes, smoke alarms should be located in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level, including the basement and upstairs areas. Extra smoke alarms may be recommended or even required in larger homes.

Test smoke alarms monthly by using the test button to ensure that each alarm is functioning properly. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire alarm unit replaced every 8-10 years. Other alarms that have replaceable batteries should have the batteries replaced every year, while the group units should be replaced every 10 years.

If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician, or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home has a fire emergency plan in-place and it is recommended that you conduct regular fire drills with your family to ensure that everyone is informed on the procedures and steps.

For more information on emergency preparedness, contact your local SERVPRO of Blount County professionals at 865-982-2332.