FIRE SAFETY TIPS

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS:

We hope the time never comes when you might have to resort to using a fire extinguisher, but if you do, it is important to know the 4 different classes of fires and the proper type of fire extinguisher to use. You should always know your extinguisher's capabilities before trying to fight a fire. Portable fire extinguishers are useful for putting out small fires, but recognize your limits and the limits of the extinguisher. Using the wrong type of extinguisher on a fire can actually make it spread so it's important to plan ahead.

The 4 different classes of fires are:

•   Class A fires (Trash, Wood, and Paper)
•   Class B fires (any Liquids)
•   Class C fires (anything Electrical)
•   Class D fires (Combustible Metals)

The 4 different types of fire extinguishers are:

•   Dry Chemical, (used for class A, B, and C fires)
•   Carbon Dioxide (co2) (used for class B and C fires)
•   Light Water (used for class A fires)
•   Purple K (used for class B, C, and D fires)

To properly use a fire extinguisher, you should use the "PASS" word system:

REMEMBER: to periodically inspect your extinguishers to determine if they need to be recharged or replaced. If a fire breaks out, your first step is to call your local fire department and get everyone out of the house. When using a portable extinguisher, keep your back to an unobstructed exit that is free from fire.

SMOKE DETECTORS:

Smoke detectors are the most important tool in fire safety. A working smoke detector doubles the chance of surviving a fire, warning of a fire in time to escape. Fire detectors should be installed on each level of the home and outside of each sleeping area.
Test smoke detectors at least once a month and replace batteries at least twice a year, or whenever a detector chirps to signal the battery is low. Don't ever borrow detector batteries for other uses. A disabled smoke detector can't save lives!

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS:

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning claims more than 200 lives each year in America, and sends another 10,000 people to the hospital for treatment. Install at least one UL-listed carbon monoxide alarm near all sleeping areas and outside individual bedrooms.
How to react to a carbon monoxide alarm depends on whether anyone is feeling ill or not.

If no one is feeling ill:

•   Silence the alarm
•   Turn off all appliances and sources of combustion (furnace and fireplace)
•   Ventilate the house with fresh air by opening doors and windows
•   Call a qualified professional to investigate the source of the possible carbon monoxide build-up (gas company or Fire Department)

If illness is suspected or a factor:

•   Evacuate all occupants immediately
•   Determine how many occupants are ill and their symptoms
•   Call "9-1-1"
•   Do not re-enter the home without the approval of a Fire Department representative
•   Call a qualified professional to repair the source of the carbon monoxide