Every family should spend time developing and practicing a plan for fire prevention, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Both groups are encouraging families make this plan as part of their collaborative campaign on Fire Prevention Week.
The CPSC cited data that shows there were over 386,000 accidental home fires every year from 2006 to 2008. Those fires caused approximately 2,400 fatalities and over 12,500 injuries annually. The fire prevention initiative, in action during October 9 to October 15, stresses the correlation between preparedness and prevention. They provided a set of government approved safety guidelines, including a few of the tips listed below.
- Always install smoke alarms: They should be on each level of a home and in every bedroom. Use a variety of models with both photoelectric and ionization alarms, and make sure they have battery backups. Connected smoke alarm systems are the best, which trigger all the alarms to sound whenever one does. The agencies estimate that around two thirds of fire fatalities happen in residences without smoke alarms (or with ones that don’t operate properly).
- Put together a family fire escape plan: And practice it so everyone knows what to do! The plan should include at least two routes to get out of a given area or room, clear directions for all family members, and a designated outside meeting location.
Fire safety and preparedness is crucial. Have you or a family member been injured in a fire that you believe was caused by another party’s negligent actions? Contact the Oklahoma premises liability attorneys with Maples Law Firm at (405) 705-5050 for a complimentary consultation.
