As we usher out the month of October and in honor of National Fire Prevention Week, here are a few steps to keep your home or office safe from fire. The rule of thumb is to be Aware, Protected and Survive. Working to create prevention measures will go a long way and save a lot of heart ache and loss in the event of a fire.
First Line Of Defense: Be Alert: Smoke Alarms
Having properly working smoke detectors and/or alarms is the easiest measure one can take to be alerted to a possible fire in a home or business. Smoke detectors are designed to sense smoke, typically as an indicator of fire, issuing a local audible or visual alarm from the detector itself. Smoke alarms, however, issue a signal to a fire alarm control panel as part of a fire alarm system, which alerts the local fire department (or your alarm company who in turn alerts the fire company) of your possible need for help. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Have your alarm company test your system on this same schedule. Place smoke alarms on each floor of your home and in each bedroom.
It is up to you and your situation to determine which level of defense (detector or alarm system) is best for you but it is imperative that you have one or the other. In the United States, the National Fire Protection Association estimates that nearly two-thirds of deaths from home fires occur in properties without working smoke alarms/detectors. Don’t become a statistic.
Second Line Of Defense: Be Protected: Home Sprinkler Systems And Extinguishers
The second line of defense is to have the ability to protect yourself, even if in the worst case scenario, it’s simply to make your way safely out of a burning home or office. Strategically place fire extinguishers throughout your home and make sure everyone in the house knows where they are and how to use them. If possible, place them near exits or in locations in concurrence to an exit plan. In the United States, fire extinguishers in all buildings other than houses are generally required to be serviced and inspected by a Fire Protection service company at least annually. If you own your home, make sure they are always up to date; and if you live in a building make sure your landlord or management company abides by this regulation.
Just Run The Ball: Survive: Have A Plan
Once you have a smoke detector to alert you and a sprinkler or extinguisher apparatus to protect you, the last line of defense is to skedaddle on out of there. The idea is to first protect your life, then if possible your home. Plan a family escape route and practice it once a month. Fires are scary situations that are sporadic and out of control. In the event of a fire, there will be panic, but a practiced routine will combat the fear and confusion and ensure that everyone, even if separated, arrives at a safe designated location in a timely fashion.
If you have any questions about residential or commercial alarm systems, don’t hesitate to call Delco Alarm at 610-459-0800. Delco Alarm is based out of Aston, PA and provides service to the tri-state area including West Chester, Aston, Media, Chadds Ford, Chester, Kennett Square, Newtown Square, Glen Mills, Malvern, Exton, Downingtown, Philadelphia, Wilmington, DE and New Jersey.