Fire Safety Tips for Families

Every year, the majority of fire deaths in North America happen at home. Home fires today burn faster than ever. In a typical home fire, occupants may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds.

Home Fire Escape Planning

A home escape plan should include the following:

• Two exits from every room in the home – usually a door and a window
• Properly installed and working smoke alarms
• A meeting place outside in front of the home where everyone will meet after they exit
• A call to 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from a cell phone or a neighbor’s phone  

Smoke Alarms

Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement.

Cooking

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.

Heating

All heaters need space. Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet (1 metre) away from heating equipment.