Fire Prevention Month tips from the City

October is Fire Prevention Month and Dallas Fire-Rescue Fire Prevention Officers with the City of Dallas are sharing some tips to keep you safe.

Smoke detectors save lives. Have a working smoke alarm outside each sleeping area, inside each sleeping area, and on each level of your home. Test smoke alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Do not change the battery if you have a lithium battery. The alarm will let out a periodic “chirping” sound when it needs a new battery. Install smoke alarms away from air vents and on the ceiling or wall, at least four inches from the corners.

It is also important to plan ahead so you can be proactive and responsive to a fire emergency. Develop a fire escape plan with the members of your household and practice often. Plan two ways to exit from every room in your home. Make sure that safety bars on windows can be opened from inside your home. Remember to crawl low and under the smoke. Touch closed doors, and if hot, use another exit to avoid the fire dangers. Identify a place to meet outside in case of fire. Never re-enter a burning building, escape first. Then call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.

If you plan on pulling out a space heater to keep warm as the temperatures drop, there are a few ways to stay safe. Keep clothes, blankets, curtains and other combustibles at least three feet from portable heaters and be sure they are stable.

Have chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a professional. Clear the area around the hearth of debris, flammables and decorative materials. Always use a metal mesh screen with fireplaces and leave glass doors open while burning a fire. Keep lighters and matches out of the reach of children, never leave cigarettes unattended and never smoke in bed.

Kitchen fires are one of the most common types of residential fires. Keep clothes, towels and other combustibles away from stove burners. Never leave cooking unattended. Be sure your stove and small appliances are off before going to bed. The other most common types for residential fires are electrical. Check for frayed wires and do not run cords under rugs or furniture. Never overload electrical sockets.

Click here to find out about any of the fire education programs, or to schedule one for your group, please call (214)670-4633 or email [email protected].