Fire Saftey

   

Fire Extinguishers:

Using a fire extinguisher:

Remember the word P.A.S.S.

P - Pull the pin

A - Aim low; point the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the flames

S - Squeeze trigger slowly while holding the extinguisher upright

S - Sweep the extinguisher from side to side, covering the area of the fire with the extinguishing agent

Tips for Fighting a Small Fire

  1. Sound the alarm and get everyone out
  2. Call 9-1-1
  3. Only attempt to fight the fire with an extinguisher if the fire is small and contained
  • Never try to extinguish a fire that is too large
  • Make sure you're safe from hazardous smoke
  • If possible, try to confine and contain the fire by closing doors to it

Stop and leave the area immediately if:

  • The fire begins to spread
  • Your path of escape is threatened
  • The extinguisher runs out of agent
  • The extinguisher is ineffective
  • You can no longer safely fight the fire

Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Stopping A Silent Killer

Wisconsin's New CO LawCarbon monoxide detectors alert you to the presence of Carbon Monoxide (CO), a colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas. Because you can't see, taste, or smell it, carbon monoxide can kill you before you know it's present.

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting
  • Confusion

Where does carbon monoxide come from?
Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of anything that burns:

  • Fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, dryers, stoves, water heaters, space heaters, fireplaces, and grills
  • Wood burning stoves and fireplaces
  • Automobile engines

What should I look for in a carbon monoxide detector?
Choose a detector that is UL listed. The UL mark guarantees that the product has passed tests in the areas of performance, safety, and accuracy. Detectors built to the UL standard also emit an audible alarm when elevated levels of carbon monoxide are detected. 

Where do I put my carbon monoxide detector?
The ideal location is in the hallway, near the sleeping area of your home. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends at least one detector per household. A second detector located near the home's heating source adds an extra measure of safety. Follow the manufacturer's installation instructions carefully. Once installed, it's a good idea to test your carbon monoxide detector monthly; if it's battery operated, make sure to regularly replace the batteries.

What happens if my carbon monoxide detector goes off?

  • Open doors and windows to let fresh air in
  • Get outside as quickly as possible
  • Call 9-1-1 from a neighbor's house
  • Call a qualified technician to find the source of the carbon monoxide

        

Plan an Escape Route
Know how to get out of your home in the event of a fire. Designate a meeting place outside where family members will gather once they've escaped. Practice your fire drill at least twice a year.

Be Safe in the Kitchen
Wear tight-fitting or rolled-up sleeves when cooking. Never reach over a hot burner. If a pot catches fire, cover it with a lid and turn off the burner. Never leave your cooking unattended.

Practice Stop, Drop, and Roll
If your clothing catches fire, don't run. Stop where you are. Drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll over and over to put out the flames. If you can't do this, grab a towel or blanket and smother the flames.

Crawl Low Under Smoke
Most fire victims die from smoke, not flames. Smoke always rises, so you must get down on the floor where the air is cleaner. Crawl on your hands and knees to safety .

Smoke Detectors Save Lives!
Every level of your home needs a smoke detector. Detectors should also be placed outside every bedroom. Because smoke rises, the best place to install a smoke detector is on the ceiling. 

  • Make sure you buy a detector that is UL approved
  • Test your smoke detector monthly
  • Replace the batteries regularly

In rental property, the landlord is required by law to install and maintain smoke alarms. Landlords must also provide smoke alarm maintenance information to the occupant of each unit.

It is against the law for anyone to disable a smoke alarm. This applies equally to homeowners, landlords, and tenants.