Fire Safety
Each year approximately
80% of all fire deaths are a result of residential fires. This
is why the fire service tries to alert people to plan and practice
fire drills at their home. Of these fire deaths, most are from
smoke and poisonous gasses. Many times the smoke is more dangerous
than the fire. Smoke or poisonous gasses inhaled by someone
sleeping might either cause the person to not wake up or to
pass out as soon as they try to escape. The different particles
in the air can cause lung damage, obscure light, and severely
irritate the eyes. This is why planning and fire drills are
so important.
Implementing an escape plan
for your home is one of the smartest steps taken to help reduce
the risk from a fire.
Develop a step-by-step plan
with everyone in your home. It should include doors, windows,
and anything that might be useful, such as a porch roof or balcony
that could be used for escape.
Have two ways out of each
room and make sure that they are in good working order. This
includes doors that unlock easily and windows that aren't painted
shut.
Have a meeting place outside
where everyone knows to meet after leaving the building.
Memorize the emergency numbers
(in Athens 911) to the fire department and call after exiting.
Practice the escape plan
twice a year.
Above all, remember that
once you leave the burning building do not go back inside.
