Get Ready for House Fires

Household fires cause nearly 3,000 deaths and more than 12,000 injuries nationwide annually. There are four key things to know about house fires:

Fire is fast – In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire, and smoke can fill a house quickly.

Fire is hot – Heat is more threatening than flames. Inhaling super-hot air will scorch your lungs and the heat can melt clothes to your skin.

Fire is dark – Fire isn’t bright; it’s pitch black. Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke.

Fire is deadly – Fire uses up the oxygen you need and produces deadly gases.

Before a House Fire

Install Smoke Alarms

  • Properly working smoke alarms decrease chances of death by half.
  • Place smoke alarms on every level of the residence. Place them outside bedrooms on the ceiling, on the wall 4 to 12 inches from the ceiling, at the top of open stairways, or at the bottom of enclosed stairs and near (but not in) the kitchen.
  • Test and clean smoke alarms once a month. If your model uses a 9-volt battery, be sure to replace the battery at least once a year. Newer alarms with a lithium battery require periodic maintenance and testing. Follow manufacturer’s instructions and replace smoke alarms every 10 years.
During a Fire
  • Check closed doors for heat with the back of your hand before opening. Feel the top of the door and the crack between the door and door frame.
    • Hot Door
      Do not open. Escape through a window. If you cannot escape, hang a white or light-colored sheet outside the window to alert fire fighters to your location.
    • Cool Door
      Open slowly and ensure fire or smoke is not blocking your escape route. If blocked, shut the door immediately and use an alternate route, such as a window. If clear, leave immediately and close it behind you.
  • Crawl low under any smoke to your exit
  • If clothes catch fire, stop, drop and roll or smother the flames with a blanket or towel.
  • Once you are safely out, never re-enter. Call 9-1-1.
After a Fire
  • Cool and cover any burns.
  • Evacuate immediately if you detect heat or smoke when entering a building..
  • A safe or strong box can hold heat for several hours. Do not open.