HOUSE FIRE

BEFORE:
* Install smoke detectors on every level of your home. Place on ceiling or on the wall between 4
and 12 inches of the ceiling. Check batteries twice per year. Replace detectors every ten yrs.
* Remove Fire hazards. Clean out storage areas. Do not let flammable trash, rags, and etc.
accumulate.
* Have your chimney inspected and cleaned as often as needed. Clean your dryer vent out as
often as needed (depending on use). A qualified chimney sweep can do both.
* Never use gasoline, benzene, naphtha, or other highly flammable liquids inside.
* Have working fire extinguishers handy. (Do not store where they can become overheated and
explode).
* Plan at least two ways to get out of every room in your home. Have escape ladders for 2nd
floor.
* Teach family members fire safety. Have fire drills.
* Close bedroom doors each night, but do not sleep with bedroom doors locked.
* Make sure windows are easily opened from inside.
* HAVE A SAFE PLACE TO MEET OUTSIDE OF YOUR HOME. Teach family members not to
re-enter the home (or building) once they are outside.

DURING:
* If you are inside, alert the others, crawl low under the smoke.
* If the door is hot, do NOT open, go out another way.
* Should you catch fire, do NOT run. Roll on the floor or ground.
* Get out quickly, then call 911 from a neighbors phone if necessary. Give name, address and
type of fire. Listen to and follow instructions.
* If you are outside, do NOT return for anything.
* Report to the family meeting place.
* Turn off electricity and gas from outside house if possible.

AFTER:
* Do NOT re-enter the building until authorities have given permission.
* Contact your homeowner’s insurance agent as soon as possible.
* Arrange for temporary structural repairs, covering holes in roof, boarding windows, etc.
(Your insurance company may do this for you.)