Your child will do better in school if he comes home to a safe and secure home. The colder weather adds another dimension to family safety. How many of these actions have you done?
Check The Furnace
- Your furnace should be checked annually by a professional.
- Keep little ones at least 3 feet away from fireplaces.
Fireplace Safety
Fireplaces add a beautiful ambiance to the holiday.
Unfortunately, they are also a natural draw for children.
- Keep your kids at least 3 feet away from a working fireplace.
- Make sure you get your fireplace checked yearly by a professional.
- Familiarize yourself with how to open and shut the flap.
Space Heaters
Many families use space heaters in winter. These appliances require special education and care.
- Never leave small children alone while your space heater is in use.
- Keep items such as blankets away from the space heater.
- Place the space heater in an out-of-the-way location.
- Check to make sure your heater works properly and meets industry standards.
Check Your Alarms
- Change the batteries in your smoke alarm (and carbon monoxide detector) twice a year.
- Check if they are working on a monthly basis.
Fire Extinguishers
You should have at least one portable fire extinguisher in your home:
- Make sure it can put out all types of fires;
- Practice how to use the extinguisher;
- Click here “Recalls” to make sure your fire extinguisher has not been recalled.
Develop A Family Evacuation Plan
This is something every family should have: Regardless of the time of year.
- Establish a family evaluation plan.
- Make sure every family member knows what action to take in case of a fire (stay close to the ground; feel doors before opening them).
- If your home has 2 floors, make sure you have an emergency ladder and your children know how to use it.
- Decide on a specific meeting place outdoors that all family members will meet.
- Practice the escape plan regularly. It’s not enough just to talk about it.
