Are you prepared for a fire?

The fire season in the United States has been extending, and recently fires have been more frequent and prolonged due to droughts, winds and extreme and changing weather conditions.

While the period of highest fire risk is usually from late spring through fall, fires can now occur at any time of the year, especially in areas with drought and high winds as happened last January in California.

Climate experts and scientists have said that due to climate change there is no longer a traditional fire season, so it is always better to be prepared each and every member of our family and also our homes.

So, here are some recommendations to keep you safe from fires.

Did you know that smoke detectors save lives? If you install a smoke detector at the exit of each bedroom and another one on each floor of your home, you have a better chance of getting out of your home in time and getting to safety.

Since you have smoke detectors, it is important that you press the test button once a month to check the operation of each detector. If necessary, change the batteries immediately. Batteries should be changed at least once a year.

Also, don’t forget to dust and vacuum the cobwebs from each detector monthly.

Another item that is important for you to consider is having one or more fire extinguishers in your home and well you should also get training from the fire department on how to use them.

Also, you should know that fire detectors lose strength over time and it is recommended to replace them every 10 years.

If possible, you can install an automatic fire sprinkler system in your home.

If you live in an area vulnerable to fire it is relevant that you plan some exit routes.

You should identify at least two ways out of every room in your home.

It is advisable to have emergency stairs for bedrooms on the second or third floor and you should also learn how to use them and place them near the windows.
As part of your fire preparations, it is important to determine a place outside your home where everyone can gather afterwards.

It is important to rehearse your exit plan at least twice a year.

The American Red Cross recommends having this plan detailed and practiced, so it is important to ask yourself how prepared am I for a fire?

Remember that fires are one of the most common disasters and cause more deaths than any other type of disaster. But fires don’t have to be deadly if you hear your smoke detector alarm in time and everyone in your family knows how to calmly leave the home.

Please take seriously the responsibility to plan and rehearse what to do in the event of a fire.

The American Red Cross has made a checklist available to the community to support your emergency plan in the event of a natural disaster or wildfire.

If you sleep with your doors closed, also install smoke detectors in the bedrooms so you can hear if they go off.

Prepare by having several members of your family rehearse each item on the checklist and then you can meet to discuss and finalize the design of your family fire plan.

On the checklist provided by the Red Cross, it is recommended that you write down the dates you checked the detectors and which family member checked them.

The checklist also checks that the fire extinguisher is properly charged and that the gauge or test button is used to check the pressure. If the device is under pressure, damaged, or corroded, replace it or have it repaired by a specialist.

You should have training from your fire department on how to use the fire extinguisher.

Only adults should handle and use fire extinguishers. On the list below are the names of family members who know this process.

The American Red Cross asks that you rehearse your exit in case of an emergency and suggests writing down the meeting place outside the home in case of fire.

Remember, in the event of a wildfire in your area, you should follow your plan and be attentive to the directions of authorities to keep you and your loved ones safe.

For more information and to download the check sheet go to the American Red Cross website.