SMOKE ALARMS

·    Have a working smoke alarm on each level of your home and outside bedrooms.
·    Test smoke alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
·    Install smoke alarms away from air vents.
·    Install smoke alarms on the ceiling or wall, at least 4 inches from the corners.
·    When affixed to walls, smoke alarms should be between 4 and 12 inches from the ceiling.
·    Never disable or remove smoke alarm batteries.

 ESCAPE PLANNING

·    Develop a fire escape plan with the members of your household and practice often.
·    Know two ways to exit from every room in your home.
·    Make sure that safety bars on windows can be opened from inside your home.
·    Crawl low, under smoke.
·    Feel closed doors. If hot, use another exit.
·    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.

 FIRE SAFETY

·    Keep clothes, blankets, curtains and other combustibles at least three feet from portable heaters.
·    Place portable heaters where they will not tip over easily.
·    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 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.
·    Check for frayed wires and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
·    Never overload electrical sockets.
·    Keep lighters and matches out of the reach of children.
·    Never leave cigarettes unattended.
·    Never smoke in bed.

For more fire safety tips and information courtesy of Dallas Fire Rescue, click HERE.