1. OCTOBER IS FIRE SAFETY MONTH!!!!!!

2. What can you do to Protect yourself and your family? PRACTICE FIRE SAFETY and FIRE PREVENTION EVERYDAY!!!

3. INSTALL SMOKE ALARMS Smoke alarms double your chances of surviving a fire!!!!!

4. Smoke Alarms…. Follow manufacturer’s guidelines for installation Make sure the smoke alarm works – replace batteries as needed and at least once annually Test the smoke alarm once a month

5. Develop an Exit plan… For example: The E.D.I.T.H. Plan EXIT DRILLS IN THE HOME Your Exit Plan Should: 1. Identify two ways out of every room. 2. Establish a meeting place outside. 3. A method for contacting the Chickasha Fire Department ( Dialing 911) from outside your home.

6. When Your Plan is Developed… Teach everyone to “Get Out – Stay Out”. Keep in mind that toxic smoke and gases rise to the ceiling. If smoke is present, stay low to the floor for cleaner, cooler air. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, and PRACTICE!!

7. Tips for Electric Space Heaters… Make sure you have the right wiring and outlets with sufficient voltage. Units should be approve by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (U.L., etc.) and manufacturers instruction should be followed The appliance should have an automatic shut-off valve.

8. Electric Space Heaters continued… Keep all combustibles at least 3 (three) feet away. Keep children and pets away from the appliance Avoid extension cords!!!!!

9. General Electrical Safety… Inspect electrical wiring for damage. Don’t overload extension cords. Keep extension cords out of traffic areas. Extension cords are not designed for long term use. Electric blankets should conform to appropriate standards (U.L., etc.).

10. Tips for Using Fireplaces... Fireplaces should be serviced by a professional annually. Check for cracks, loose bricks and other defects before using. Burn only seasoned hardwoods. NEVER use gasoline, kerosene, or lighter fluid to start a fire!!! Keep a screen or a heat tempered glass door to prevent sparks from flying out.

11. Tips for Wood Burning Stoves… Top chimney with spark guards. Make sure stove has approval from a recognized testing laboratory. Use adequate ventilation. Keep combustibles at least 3 feet away from the stove. Shovel ashes into a metal container and store outside. Follow manufacturer’s instructions.

12. Tips for Kerosene Heaters… Select the right heater!! Unit should have a safety shut-off valve. Use only pure kerosene. Use in a properly ventilated area. Shut unit off while sleeping. Refuel unit outside – only when unit is cool.

13. Tips for Cooking Safety… NEVER leave stoves unattended while cooking!!!! Appliances should be turned off after use. Cover a grease fire with a lid. Turn pot handles to the inside. NEVER use a stove or oven to heat your home!!!! Check appliances before going to bed to ensure the appliance is turned off.

14. For more information contact the Chickasha Fire Department @ 222-6035 or visit www.chickasha.org, www.usfa.fema.gov or www.firesafety.gov for additional information on fire safety.