Fire Safety

Children who are not prepared to handle dangerous situations become vulnerable targets for child molesters and other criminal predators. Parents must work with their children to explain some of the potential danger that exists in everyday life. Children must be taught to become more aware of their surroundings and what could possibly go wrong so that they do not become an unsuspecting victim. There are several safety issues that we must take the time to educate our children about such as "street safety", "home safety", " auto safety" and "fire safety".

Fire Safety:

-Fire and smoke inhalation kill hundreds of children each year in the United States.

-Check to make sure that your house is equipped with several fire and smoke alarms. Test them every month to make sure the batteries are working.

-Plan a FIRE ESCAPE ROUTE for the whole family in case of a fire. Go over the plan many, many times so that everyone knows what his/her role will be in case of a fire. Have an alternate route plan in case the fire is too close to the children's bedrooms.

-Purchase Fire Extinguishers and place them in specific areas of the house. Make sure everyone knows where the extinguisher is located.

-If a fire starts in the house, remember to stay close to the floor and crawl to the "safety exit" nearest you from your escape plan.

-Never open a closed door without feeling it first to see if it is hot. Place your palm against the door...if it feels hot then the fire is right outside the door and keep it closed. Wet a towel or sheet and place it against the bottom of the door to keep smoke out. Stay in the room and if there is a window, use it as an escape route.

-If the door feels cool or cold, open it slowly while still staying low on the floor. Look to see where the fire is located and which way you should go for an escape.