Here are some expert recommended fire safety tips from the professionals at Gate Keepers Fire & Safety:
- Do not use water to try and extinguish oil or grease fires. Instead, safely smother it with non-flammable powder, a fire blanket, or the proper fire extinguisher type;
- Be cautious about wearing loose clothing and using dish towels or pot holders as they can all ignite in as little as 400 degrees (Fahrenheit);
- Learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher as it can help save lives and property. (See our FAQ for information on the PASS method);
- NEVER HAVE SECURITY DOORS WITH INTERIOR KEYS AS THEY CAN BREAK, BE MISPLACED, OR LOST DURING AN EMERGENCY;
- Outside rally points are useful for evacuation plans, especially for families;
- Close doors behind you as you evacuate to slow the spread of the fire and smoke;
- When there is smoke, crawl or crouch low for breathable air;
- Test door handles with the back of your hand before trying to slowly open them;
- Do not fully open or try to cross through doors if smoke comes out when you start to open it;
- If you do not have a monitored fire safety system, alert the fire department AFTER evacuating the building;
- Never go back into a burning building;
- Smoke detectors should be mounted high on a wall or on the ceiling;
- Cooking vapors and steam can trigger smoke detectors, so care should be used when placing them around or in kitchens and bathrooms to minimize false alarms;
- Extinguishers need to be inspected on a monthly basis and certified annually;
- Smoke detectors need to be sensitivity tested or replaced after ten years;
- Fire safety systems need to be inspected annually, even if the building is unoccupied;
- Backflow assemblies need to be certified annually.
For additional information contact a representative at Gate Keepers Fire & Safety at (303) 915-3670 or click here to send us a message.