Home fires are always a difficult ordeal to get through, no matter the size and scope of the damage. But the true tragedy is when a fire causes injuries or even fatalities to loved ones Thanks to leaps in fire prevention technology and ever-vigilant firefighters, the United States has seen a dramatic decline in fire-related deaths over the past two decades. As smoke alarms and fire extinguishers become more prevalent in homes, residents have survived home fires at an increased rate.
However, tow of the greatest prevention tools continue to be two of the simplest solutions: education and preparation. Merely teaching the members of your household what to do in case of a fire will increase your chances of surviving a fire unscathed. In particular, children need to be educated about the dangers of fire, as children under the age of five are twice as likely as the rest of us to die in a fire.
Maket it a prioority to set aside a night to talk to the members of your household about fire safety. Many children are curious about fire and don't realize the risk it poses. Consider bringing up the following talking points in a calm but firm tone of voice:
* Explain to the young ones in your family matches and lighters are tools for adults only, and to alert an adult if these tools are lying around the house.
* Always store matches and lighters out of sight and reach of young children.
* Do not use lighters, candles or matches as a source of amusement. Children often imitate the actions of their parents.
* Remember, no lighter is child-proof! Some are merely child-resistant.
* Teach your children what your fire alarm sounds like, and walk them through the escape plan several times per year.
* Establish a safe meeting place outside your home, and teach children to take nothing with them and to never go back inside.
For more statistics and information on teaching fire safety to your young ones, call Servpro or go to http://www.usfaparents.gov.
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