This week is National Fire Prevention Week and an important time to look at preventing fires both here and at home. Here are some safety tips for fire prevention.

Smoke Alarms

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. For the best protection, interconnect all smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.
• Make sure everyone can hear the sound of the smoke alarms. Talking smoke alarms have been found to be more effective with sleeping children.
• Have a home fire escape plan. Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible, and a meeting place outside. Practice your escape plan twice a year.
• When the smoke alarm sounds, get out and stay out.

Electrical

• Keep lamps, light fixtures, and light bulbs away from anything that can burn, such as lamp shades, bedding, curtains, and clothing.
• Replace cracked and damaged electrical cords.
• Use extension cords for temporary wiring only.
• Consider having additional circuits or receptacles added by a qualified electrician.
• Call a qualified electrician or landlord if you have recurring problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers, discolored or warm wall outlets, flickering lights or a burning or rubbery smell coming from an appliance.

Smoking

• If you smoke, smoke outside.
• Wherever you smoke, use deep, sturdy ashtrays.
• Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used.
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet, out of the reach of children.
• Never smoke in bed or when you are drowsy.

For more information you can visit www.firepreventionweek.org