Definition of Fire Prevention

Practicing fire prevention can help save the lives of you and your loved ones. It means preparing your home or workplace for the event of a fire disaster. Fire prevention is knowing what you can do to prevent a fire in the first place as well as what actions to take in case one happens anyway. There are a few basic guidelines for fire prevention that every person should be aware of.

Hazardous Materials

Prevention is a very important aspect of fire safety. Learn about all the different fire hazards that can be present in your home. Fully inspect all heaters, appliances and electrical work to make sure that everything is functioning properly. It is a good idea to get these things inspected regularly by professionals who can detect problems that you might not be aware of. Store highly flammable and combustible materials, like certain cleaners, chemicals and paints, in a fireproof storage closet far away from heat elements.

Smoke Detectors

The best fire prevention tools you can have in your home are smoke detectors. Install smoke detectors on every level of your house. They are inexpensive and simple to install. Fires can start anywhere in the home, so make sure the smoke detectors are located where they could detect smoke from anywhere. Test your smoke detectors frequently and replace their batteries at least once a year. These alarms could save your life by alerting you to a fire while you are fast asleep.

Extinguishers

Keep at least one fire extinguisher in your home--more if possible. Teach yourself and family members how to properly use the fire extinguisher. The best place to keep one is in the kitchen, where most house fires start. A fire extinguisher can prevent a fire from spreading.

Escape Plan

Practice good fire safety by making an escape plan for you and your family. It is important to know where everyone is in the house or workplace. Make a map of the building, labeling all exit points. Make sure children know how to unlock and open any windows that they may need to escape through. Determine which routes you should take depending on where the fire is. You can draw arrows on the map to show how to escape. It is very important that you designate a place outside to meet up once everyone has escaped. This way, you will know if anyone is still missing and could be trapped inside. Practice your escape plan several times a year. This way, people will be familiar with the procedures and will be less likely to panic in the event of a real fire.

Stop, Drop and Roll

Sometimes even the best fire escape plan can still allow accidents and emergencies. Everyone should know what to do in case their clothing or hair catches on fire. The technique that has been taught to children for years is to stop, drop and roll. Your natural instinct might be to run, but this will only add oxygen to the fire. Practice the stop, drop and roll technique with your family.

References

• Fire Prevention in the Home

Resources

• Fire Safety