Are Your Kids Fire-Safety Savvy?

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

How can you teach your kids about fire safety?

Teaching Your Kids About Fire Safety

No one in Woodstock, GA, likes to talk about the threat of a home fire. However, when it comes to kids safety, talking about a potential emergency teaches children what to do should they actually face a fire crisis. Just like school fire drills, home fire drills give everyone a chance to practice getting out of the house quickly and safely. Family discussions about fire safety help children feel less anxious because they are more prepared. How can you teach your kids about fire safety? Here are a few ideas:

Practice Makes Perfect
Prepare an escape map showing home exits and how to get to them from each child's room.

• Conduct regular fire drills to practice fire escape routes.
• Occasionally challenge kids by pretending certain exits are blocked by smoke or fire.
• Include windows as possible exits. Teach kids how to unlock and open them, and remove the screen.
• If available, show children how to use upper floor rescue ladders.
• Time drills to see if your family can get out of the house and meet at a designated place within 3 minutes.
• Ensure children understand that, once out of a burning building, they must never go back for anything--not even a pet.
  

What If You Can't Get Out?
Review what to do if escape routes are blocked.

Call 911 or yell from a fully opened window. Stand in front of it and cover your mouth with a (preferably) wet towel or clothing.
Block cracks around doors with sheets or blankets.
Don't hide in a closet or under a bed because firefighters will be looking to get you to safety.
"Stop, drop and roll" if clothing catches fire.

Preparation and practice can save lives and prevent expensive property damage, in addition to other fire restoration expenses. Kids safety depends on their knowledge and know-how. Protect your children by making sure they are fire-safety savvy.