Use a Smoke Alarm

Many fire deaths occur between midnight and 4 a.m., when the family is asleep. Fire produces smoke and gases that can numb your senses. If a fire breaks out, you may not wake up, or you may not be able to think clearly. That’s why you need a smoke detector. This will sound an alarm when a fire starts. Then you can get your family to safety.

• Make sure you have a smoke detector. Ask your landlord for one. You can buy a smoke detector for as little as $10.
• Make sure the smoke detector is installed correctly: on a ceiling, at least six inches from the wall or on a wall 6-12 inches from the ceiling, away from windows, doors and vents.
• Check the battery every six months. Do it when you change the clocks for Daylight Savings Time. That’s an easy way to remember. Brush or vacuum dust from the unit. Dust can cause it to malfunction.
• Detectors are sensitive to cooking fumes, fireplace smoke and cigarettes. When the alarm sounds, teach your children to stay calm.
• For more information on fire safety, contact your local fire department or visit the U.S. Fire Administration Web site at www.usfa.fema.gov/.

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