Grand Canyon Chapter Offers Fire Prevention & Safety Tips

Simple Steps to Help Prevent the Biggest Disaster Threat Affecting Families across the Nation PHOENIX The biggest disaster threat to families across our nation every day isnt a flood or hurricane; its home fires. Last year, the Grand Canyon Chapter responded to nearly 550 home fires. Nationally, the American Red Cross responded to more than 63,000 local fires last year. As Home Fire Prevention Week (October 3-9) approaches, your local Red Cross is encouraging Arizonans to take steps to minimize the risk of home fires by remembering two key fire safety steps: install a smoke alarm and develop a fire escape plan. "Fires can strike suddenly and spread quickly, says Bill Epps, Chief Executive Officer, Grand Canyon Chapter. Its important that people take simple and inexpensive steps now, such as installing a smoke alarm inside bedrooms, outside sleeping areas and on every level of their homes. They should also create a plan of escape in case they need to leave at a moments notice, because during a fire every second counts and being prepared can greatly reduce the affects of these devastating disasters. It is recommended that people check each smoke alarm in their home by pushing the test button at least once a month and replace batteries every year. Fire escape plans should include at least two escape routes from every room in the home, and a convenient meeting place at a safe distance from the home. Practice your escape plan at least twice a year and revise as necessary. The Red Cross is committed to helping people learn how to minimize the risk of a home fire. The Grand Canyon Chapter also recommends the following fire safety tips: Simple Steps to Help Prevent Fires ¢ Keep all sources of fuel (paper, clothing, bedding, and carpets or rugs) at least three feet away from all heat sources when cooking, or using alternative heating like a space heater. ¢ Dont leave the kitchen while youre frying, grilling or broiling food, and dont leave home if youre simmering, baking, boiling or roasting food. ¢ Keep matches and lighters away from and out of reach of children. Safety Tips in the Event that a Fire Strikes Your Home ¢ Once you are out, stay out! Call the fire department from a neighbors home. ¢ If you see smoke or fire in your first escape route, use your second way out. If you must exit through smoke, crawl low under the smoke to your exit. If you are escaping through a closed door, feel the door before opening it. If the door is warm, use your second way out. ¢ If smoke, heat, or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with the door closed. Signal for help using a brightly colored cloth at the window. If there is a telephone in the room, call the fire department and tell them where you are. For more Red Cross fire safety and preparedness information visit www.arizonaredcross.org.