Michael Petruccelli asks; What can you do to prepare your family in the event of a home fire? (part 12)

Michael Petruccelli says; Have Practice Drills. Schedule a daylight drill, then a nighttime drill. Then do a drill with your eyes closed. Designate in advance a chain of command of household members.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What can you do to prepare your family in the event of a home fire? (part 5)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Establish Alternate Routes. Ensure two possible exits in each sleeping room with windows and doors that can always be unlocked and opened quickly.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What can you do to prepare your family in the event of a home fire? (part 1)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Each year millions of dollars in property are lost due to residential fires. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that over 350,000 homes are affected by its devastation annually. But worse than any financial cost is the loss of life to pets and family members. Fire safety experts say that 1-2 minutes evacuation time is all that is available in many cases. That's why it is so important to have a Family Fire Escape Plan and to clearly communicate your plan to every member of the family.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What can you do to prepare your family in the event of a home fire? (part 2)

Michael Petruccelli says;  Take a moment to think of all the ways in which your home may be vulnerable to fire. Do you own a gas or charcoal grill? Do you have a dryer? Do you have a refrigerator? Do you often relax in the ambiance of your gas fireplace? Do you know that according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) careless smoking is the leading cause of residential fire deaths?

Michael Petruccelli asks; What are the most common sources of household fires? (part 4)

Michael Petruccelli says; Clean the lint from your dryer vent at least every year. Replace any flexible nylon ducts with metal ducts to reduce the risk of fire.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What are the most common sources of household fires? (part 5)

Michael Petruccelli says; Have wood-burning stoves, pellet stoves and chimney flues inspected at least once a year.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What are the most common sources of household fires? (part 6)

Michael Petruccelli says; Whenever hiring someone to work on your home, be sure they are properly licensed and fully insured. Certain repairs, like soldering, plumbing or stripping paint with heat, utilize an open flame. If not done carefully and properly, fires can result. Electrical work that is done improperly is another leading cause of fires.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What are the most common sources of household fires? (part 1)

Michael Petruccelli says; It is important for homeowners to recognize these potentially dangerous conditions and work to eliminate or reduce the risks. Most of these fires are preventable. Properly dispose of smoking materials and ashes/embers from a grill or fireplace away from the home in a fireproof metal container.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What are the most common sources of household fires? (part 2)

 Michael Petruccelli says; Be sure to turn off the stove if you have to leave it unattended- even if for a few minutes. If a grease fire occurs, do not try to extinguish it with water. Always use a fire extinguisher or a pan cover.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What are the most common sources of household fires? (part 3)

Michael Petruccelli says; Keep sufficient clearance between your personal property and the hot water heater or furnace.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What are some fire & home safety tips for grilling? (part 1)

Michael Petruccelli says; The National Fire Protection Association offers several safety tips for propane & charcoal grills. Before using a propane grill for the first time each year, and at the close of grilling season, check the gas tank for leaks. Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose. If bubbles are released, there most likely a propane leak. Be sure to get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.

 

Michael Petruccelli asks; What are some fire & home safety tips for grilling? (part 2)

Michael Petruccelli says; If you are using a charcoal starter fluid or newspaper to start the grill, never add any flammable liquids to the fire. Use a heavy duty extension cord when using an electric charcoal starter.

Michael Petruccelli asks; What are some fire & home safety tips for grilling? (part 3)

Michael Petruccelli says; Let the coals completely cool before disposing the in a metal container. keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and tray below the grill. Do not grill near the home, deck railings, underneath eaves or overhanging branches.