Teaching Fire Safety
If there was a fire in your home, you’ll want to be sure your child knows what to do. Review fire safety with your child in the event of an emergency. Planning ahead and practicing can make a big difference. Use these tips to get started!
Smoke Detectors
Teach your child about smoke detectors. Show them the ones you have in your home. Explain why you installed them, how they work, and go over what they sound like. Your child should be able to associate the sound with fire. Firefighters recommend changing the batteries in your alarm every time you change the clock on Daylight Savings Time.
Escape Plan
Design a home escape plan that includes at least two ways to get out of each room — either through a door and/or window. Choose a designated spot outside where your family will meet. Make sure it’s a safe difference away from the home. Usually, when a child is scared, they hide. Remind them that hiding isn’t the answer; going outside is.
Practice a Drill
Just like at school, your child should be practicing fire drills at home. Practice during the day and night, and make sure your child understands escaping the home in under two minutes. Try to practice the escape plan at least twice a year, but monthly is even better.
Reduce the Risk
There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of fire. Here are a few recommendations to avoid common hazards:
Reduce clutter
Don’t leave lit candles unattended
Keep fire extinguishers in the house
Keep matches and lights out of reach
Conduct regular maintenance on household appliances
Calling 911
Your child should know how to call 911in case of an emergency. Report the fire only from the meeting place outside. Roleplay with you as a dispatcher and your child as the caller that is making a report. Ask the same questions a dispatcher would, such as name, address, the emergency, and other relevant details.
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