National Fire Prevention Week Oct 6-12, 2024

Our team at DAI Restore believes in the importance of fire prevention and safety education. In alignment of National Fire Prevention Week taking place this week from October 6-12, we have compiled a few suggestions on how to keep your family and home protected from home and business fire risks. National Fire Prevention Week stands as a reminder to take these safety measures seriously, familiarize yourself with your local fire departments, and to stay up to date on resources available to you!

Fire and Smoke Damage Prevention Tips:

1. Install Smoke Alarms:

• • Ensure smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.

• • In acknowledgement of this year’s Fire Prevention theme, “Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!”: Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. 

2. Create a Fire Escape Plan:

• • Plan and practice escape routes with your family or staff members. Identify and be aware of at least two ways out of every room.

• • Designate a meeting place outside where everyone can gather after escaping. 

3. Know Your Fire Extinguishers:

• • Keep a fire extinguisher in key areas of your home or business (kitchen, garage, storage closet, etc.).

• • Learn how to properly use an extinguisher in case of a fire (PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).

4. Practice Safe Cooking

• • Stay in the kitchen while cooking.

• • Keep flammable items, like paper towels or curtains, away from any heat sources.

• • Use appliances, such as microwaves and toasters, safely:
    
    • 1. Only use microwave-safe containers, and never put metal objects inside as they can cause sparks.
      2. Never leave food unattended while using the microwave or toaster, as overheating or stuck food can ignite.
      3. Clean your microwave and toaster regularly to prevent food buildup, which can become a fire hazard over time.

5. Keep Flammable Items Away:

• • Store flammable materials (cleaning supplies, paper products) away from heat sources.

• • Avoid using extension cords for heavy appliances.

6. Be Careful with Candles:

• • Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything flammable.

• • Never leave candles unattended, and extinguish them before leaving the room or going to bed.

7. Inspect Electrical Cords:

• • Check cords regularly for fraying or damage. Replace damaged cords immediately.

• • Don’t overload electrical outlets.

8. Use Fireplaces Safely:

• • Keep a screen in front of the fireplace to prevent sparks from escaping.

• • Make sure the flue is open before starting a fire and never leave it unattended.

9. Educate Children:

• • Teach children about fire safety and the sound of smoke alarms.

• • Encourage them to never play with matches or lighters.

10. Stay Low and Go:

• • If you encounter smoke while escaping, stay low to the ground to avoid inhalation.

• • Cover your mouth with a cloth if smoke is present.

11. Call 911:

• • Know how to call 911 and provide your location clearly in case of a fire.

• • Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.

12. Schedule Regular Inspections:

• • Have a professional inspect your home or business’ heating systems, chimney, and fire alarms annually.

• • Keep employees informed and perform regular workplace safety inspections.