There is hardly anything more frightening and dangerous than a house fire. Every year, thousands of homes are destroyed by fire, causing not only property damage, but injury and loss of life. Smoke inhalation alone can require hospitalization, and burns can mean additional treatment. A few tips can help prevent fires in your home:
• Never smoke in bed.
• Do not use water to try to put out a kitchen grease or oil fire.
• Keep space heaters the proper distance from inflammable materials.
• Never burn trash outside on a windy day, the fire could spread to your house.
• Check appliances regularly for frayed or damaged cords.
Besides following these safety tips, you can also help to protect your home by keeping some important supplies on hand. The first thing, of course, will be a fire extinguisher, such as the First Alert Pro. This extinguisher will allow you to deal with electrical fires, burning liquids, and burnable substances such as fabric, wood, and paper. The First Alert Pro comes with a 12 year guarantee, and will help to assure the safety of your family and home.
Although it might be thought that burns were the major cause of injury and death during a house fire, it is actually smoke inhalation. The hot air from a fire can also contain contaminants from the burning contents of the house. Plastic and even wood can give off harmful components and carbon monoxide will also be produced. It is easy to be overwhelmed by poisonous smoke while trying to escape, so having the means to protect yourself can be crucial during a fire. For the ultimate protection during a house fire, the I EVAC Escape Hood or the Potomac Smoke Hood will keep anyone wearing them safe from the damaging effects of smoke and particulate matter.
Whether you live in a single family house or an apartment, leaving the building if you are above ground level can be difficult or impossible. Heat and fire will inevitably rise, meaning that stairways can quickly become impassable. Rather than having to jump to escape the flames and smoke, a better alternative would be an emergency ladder such as the 2 or 3 Story Fire Ladder. These ladders can provide a safe way to exit when stairs are unavailable. These ladders are designed not to tangle and can provide the assistance you and your family may need to leave a burning building as safely as possible.