Home fire safety is working in Canada and dramatically reducing fire deaths. During the past ten years, deaths from residential fires have decreased about 40%. Still, more than 300 people lose their life to fire annually, so the job is never finished. The following actions will help everyone avoid fire risk at home and at work, especially during the fall and coming winter months when fire danger increases.
A properly installed and maintained smoke alarm is a sure thing that can alert occupants to a fire 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A working smoke alarm significantly increases surviving a deadly house fire. In the event of a fire, remember to get out quickly. Smoke is toxic. To escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to a way out; heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling. If there is smoke blocking door exits or a first way out, use a second way out. Before opening a door, feel the doorknob and door. If either is hot, leave the door closed and use a second way out.
House fires can be prevented. Fire Prevention Week begins October 9th, but don’t wait to be fire safe. Start now! But if fire should strike, these and more Paul Davis vital services are at hand:
- Prompt damage assessment
- Emergency board-up and structural stabilization
- Environmentally friendly methods for cleaning soot and other residue from fire damage
- Smoke odour removal, sanitation and air purification
- Careful removal and securing of damaged contents for cleaning and restoration
- Disinfectants and antimicrobials used to prevent mould and mildew