Loss Prevention Service - Some Important Fire Safety Tips It is vitally important that every homeowner or apartment dweller discuss the importance of fire safety with members of their family. A well-planned fire escape drill will save valuable time during a fire situation (it could also save your families life). Don't be afraid to talk to your children about fire safety, in most cases they will come to you to discuss it. Be frank and honest and determine what is the safest way out of your home or building if it is burning. Always have alternate escape plans so that you can exit the building under various situations. It is a good idea to have a pre-arranged meeting place a safe distance away from your house in the event of a fire. If a fire occurs, go there and take attendance to be sure that no one is left inside the building.

Introduction Smoke detectors Recommended location of alarms Fire safety planning Fire extinguishers Some important fire safety tips

If you smell smoke or see flames or are awakened by your smoke detector, stay calm and get everyone out of the building immediately. If you have small children, the parent should pre-determine who would be responsible for each child in the event of a fire. This should be done as part of any fire escape plan. Trying to decide who is responsible once the house is on fire if foolhardy and could waste valuable time. Don't stop to call the fire department until you are out of immediate danger. Once you are safe, call the fire department from a neighbour's house. Use the 911 emergency number (if it is available in your area). Give the complete address of the fire and don't hang up until you are told to do so by the operator. A fire can create chemical smoke and gases that if inhaled can cause confusion and disorientation. You may not be able to find your own front door. For this reason stay low to the ground (crawl if necessary) and proceed to an exit as quickly as possible. If possible close doors behind you to slow the spread of smoke and flame. Be sure that no one goes back into the house or building for any reason. Tell the fire department if anyone is trapped inside the building.