Kidde PI2000 8. GOOD SAFETY HABITS, WHAT TO DO WHEN THE ALARM SOUNDS, DEVELOP AND PRACTICE A PLAN OF ESCAPE

8. GOOD SAFETY HABITS

DEVELOP AND PRACTICE A PLAN OF ESCAPE

•Make a floor plan indicating all doors and windows and at least two (2) escape routes from each room. Second story windows may need a rope or chain ladder.

•Have a family meeting and discuss your escape plan, showing everyone what to do in case of fire.

•Determine a place outside your home where you all can meet if a fire occurs.

•Familiarize everyone with the sound of the smoke alarm and train them to leave your home when they hear it.

•Practice a fire drill at least every six months, including fire drills at night. Ensure that small children hear the alarm and wake when it sounds. They must wake up in order to execute the escape plan. Practice allows all occupants to test your plan before an emergency. You may not be able to reach your chil- dren. It is important they know what to do.

•Install and maintain fire extinguishers on every level of the home and in the kitchen, basement and garage. Know how to use a fire extinguisher prior to an emergency.

•Current studies have shown smoke alarms may not awaken all sleeping individuals, and that it is the responsibility of individuals in the household that are capable of assisting others to provide assistance to those who may not be awakened by the alarm sound, or to those who may be incapable of safely evacuating the area unassisted.

WHAT TO DO WHEN THE ALARM SOUNDS

•Alert small children in the home.

•Leave immediately by your escape plan. Every second counts, so don’t waste time getting dressed or picking up valuables.

•In leaving, don’t open any inside door without first feeling its surface. If hot, or if you see smoke seeping through cracks, don’t open that door! Instead, use your alternate exit. If the inside of the door is cool, place your shoulder against it, open it slightly and be ready to slam it shut if heat and smoke rush in.

•Stay close to the floor if the air is smoky. Breathe shallowly through a cloth, wet if possible.

•Once outside, go to your selected meeting place and make sure everyone is there.