REGION — As people focus on the importance of escape plans in a fire during Fire Prevention Month 2022, it’s crucial to not lose sight of the most important tip: Prevent a structure fire in the first place.

Here are five key points to consider when thinking about fire safety at home:

• Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
• Have fire extinguishers handy and know how to use them
• Plan and practice emergency escape routes with your family
• Test and maintain alarm systems
• Replace alarms after 10 years

Here are some sobering statistics:

• Three out of five home-fire deaths resulted from fires with no working smoke alarms,
• Less than 50 percent of homeowners have an escape plan,
• Carbon monoxide (CO) is the number-one cause of accidental poisoning in the United States,
• 60 percent of consumers do not test their smoke and CO alarms monthly, and
• Unattended cooking is the number-one cause of home fires.

In terms of good practice and in the event of a home emergency, keep your family safe by planning and practicing a home escape plan. Your safety plan should include two exits out of every bedroom and a designated meeting spot a safe distance from your house like a mailbox or a neighbor’s house.

Additionally, review the escape plan with the whole family, and practice it at least twice a year to ensure that everyone remembers what to do.

Source: www.firstalert.com