Practicing Fire Safety with Children

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

Practice Fire Prevention and Preparedness with Children!

Practicing fire safety is essential for homeowners throughout Escambia County, especially those with small children in the home.  When children are present, extra precautions must be taken not only to PREVENT fires from occurring, but also to PREPARE in case of fire.  So, what are some of the additional steps that can be taken to specifically address fire safety when it comes to children?

Fire Prevention

• Do not allow children to play with matches, lighters, or candles.
• While indoor space heaters or fireplaces are in use, be sure to supervise children around these areas, and prevent flammable materials, such as blankets, from getting too close to the heat source.
• Do not allow children to operate the stove, microwave, or clothing dryer unattended.

Fire Preparation

• Teach your children the different sounds that a smoke alarm can make and what each sound means. If your fire alarm is chirping, this signifies that the batteries need to be changed.  If the alarm is beeping, this signifies that smoke has been detected and that the structure should be evacuated.
• Have an escape plan and PRACTICE it with your children. Make sure children know where at least two exits from the structure are.  Designate a meeting area outside of the home where the family will meet in case of a fire.
• Develop a plan for young children who cannot exit the home on their own. Who will be responsible for assisting infants and toddlers?

Taking care of the safety of your family in the case of a structure fire is the top priority.  In the unfortunate event that a fire does cause structural damage to your home, know that the professionals at SERVPRO of Northwest Escambia County are Here to Help with your cleanup, restoration, and reconstruction needs.  Our phone line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 850-466-3089. 

Source: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/children.html