By The Federal Citizen Information Center
October is Fire Prevention Month. And now that fall is here, it’s important to remember how easily fires can spread this time of year. With these tips from the Federal Citizen Information Center, learn what to do to prevent and survive a fire.
In just two minutes, a fire can become life threatening. In five minutes, a whole house can be destroyed. Read up on fire safety procedures and devices that can help save you and your family.
Damage to outside electrical equipment such as lighting and power cords can start a fire or cause a shock, so checking them regularly is vital to keeping your family and home protected. To help get you started, use the Electrical Safety Foundation International’s outdoor safety checklist.
In small spaces like a bedroom, avoid tall halogen lamps. They can get hot enough to ignite nearby curtains or blankets. Fluorescent bulbs are not only safer, but also keep rooms cooler. In dorm rooms, make sure you are using electrical equipment safely and know the location of the closest fire extinguisher.
To get younger kids involved and help them understand the importance of fire safety and prevention, check out the U.S. Fire Administration’s Kids website and the U.S. Forest Service’s Smokey Bear website, where kids can play interactive games and learn vital information about preventing fires.
The best way to avoid panicking in the event of a fire is to have a plan ready to go so every family member knows what to do. Plan an evacuation route for everyone and a meeting place for the family once you get outside. Make sure to move fast and not collect valuables – any second can make a difference in getting out safely.
By following these tips from the Federal Citizen Information Center, you and your family will be better prepared for any fire danger that comes your way.
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The Federal Citizen Information Center connects people with government benefits, services and information through its family of websites, including Pueblo.gsa.gov, USA.gov, GobiernoUSA.gov and ConsumerAction.gov; by phone at 1 (800) FED-INFO (that’s 1 (800) 333-4636) and with publications by mail from Pueblo, Colorado. FCIC is part of the U.S. General Services Administration’s Office of Citizen Services.
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Comments welcome.
Posted on October 13, 2010