At first look, one may think this
exercise to be trivial; however, it very well could save you and/or your
family's lives..
Be prepared......
Preplan :
At your earliest opportunity, sit down with all members of the household, and
plan appropriate exit strategies for various emergency situations. For example,
if occupants need to exit the home, and can't go one way, have other ways which
are safe and quick alternatives...have these planned for each level of the home.
Also, pre-plan a specific meeting place for all members, at a safe distance from
the home. This may be a place across the street, or next to a certain tree, or
even in a neighbors' yard. This may prevent unnecessary stress and searching for
loved ones at the most chaotic of times.
Call a family meeting from time to time and review the plans. Practice emergency drills utilizing various exit strategies to make sure everyone understands their options. Include your neighbors, so they too will know your emergency plans, and see the need to implement a plan for their own family.
Fire/Emergency Checklist :
Check the functionality of smoke
detectors/monitors monthly. Use the vacuum to remove unwanted dust materials,
being careful not to hit/damage the detector. ALWAYS test after cleaning. Make
sure that all occupants understand the sounds. Be sure that each level of the
home has a separate detector, and also have one dedicated per each 3 rooms. (3
bedroom house, w/ kit/dining/den should have minimal 2 detectors) Remember to
change batteries (if applicable) at each changing of daylight savings time.
Make sure that children understand not to play around the cooking stove, or heater units. When cooking, be sure all pot handles are turned inward to prevent children from pulling on pots/pans. Be sure that curtains/bedding materials/toys etc...are at safe distance from heater units. Make sure that electrical outlets are not overloaded, and all cords are properly cared for. Make certain that no extension cords are beneath any rugs/carpets. Always keep flammable materials stored in a safe place OUTSIDE of the home. Never heat the home using exterior cooking appliances or materials. ALWAYS read and understand specific manufacturer's guidelines for each cooking/heating appliance before putting into use.