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FIRE SAFETY AT HOME

Fire strikes more than a million times a year in the United States. That’s a big number, but people never expect a fire to happen to them. What’s really sad is that most fires could have been prevented by taking common sense, preventive measures.

Preparation is an important first step for anything you plan to do. For fire safety, that means making sure that everyone knows important information like addresses and telephone numbers. This information should be kept in a convenient location, perhaps on your refrigerator or on a bulletin board near a telephone, so it can be found immediately. This information is especially important for younger children.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

1) The number you should call in case of a fire is 911 or 414-761-5300 (for City of Greenfield). Remember: Get out first, then report the fire from a safe location.

2) Write down the following information on a sheet of paper. Keep this list where you can find it easily.

Local fire department number: 414-761-5310
Local police department number: 414-761-5300
Home phone number:____________
Parents or guardians work phone number:___________
Your street address:____________
The city you live in.____________

3) Check the front of your house - are the address numbers easily visible from the street in case a firefighter needs to find your home?

If the numbers are not clear, how would you describe your home to make it easy for emergency personnel to find? (color, landmarks, or any other unique features can all help fire personnel identify your house)

4) Smoke alarms are a critical first line of defense from fires, and are required in homes under Wisconsin law. Smoke alarms on living levels should be placed in a central location such as a hallway.

Follow these steps to ensure that your smoke alarms are in place and operating properly.

Count smoke alarms. There should be AT LEAST ONE on EVERY LEVEL of your home including the basement, where a fire may start unnoticed.

Test smoke alarms monthly. Push the test button on each alarm to ensure it is working properly. Familiarize yourself with how the alarm sounds so if you hear a smoke alarm, you’ll know what to do.

Clean the smoke alarms. Open your alarms and gently vacuum or clean any dust or other contaminants that could block the vents and prevent the alarm from working.

Set up a maintenance schedule. If your family doesn’t have a regular maintenance schedule for the smoke alarms, now is the time to create one. Start by replacing all smoke alarm batteries and replace them again in 12 months. Buy new smoke alarms every 10 years.