The Philadelphia Fire Department works around the clock to respond to emergencies and keep residents safe.
There are steps you can take to promote safety in your own life, too.
Here are some tips for protecting yourself and your home!
FIRE PREVENTION TIPS
- Smoke alarms should be installed on each level of your home, including the basement. Perform a monthly test by pressing and holding the test button for 4-5 seconds.
- If you don’t have a smoke alarm and cannot afford one, please call 311. Currently, the Fire Department installs about 8,500 smoke alarms per year. We hope to increase that number in the near future.
- Create a home escape plan. You should plan and practice two ways out of each room.
- Never place too many electrical items on the same outlet.
- Never place anything within a three-foot radius of a space heater. This includes WALLS and FURNITURE. Remember: “Space Heaters Need Space.”
- Never leave a lit candle unattended. Keep them away from curtains. Keep them away from children and pets.
- Never store matches and lighters where children can get them. Something as simple as curiosity can quickly turn into a family tragedy.
IF THERE’S A FIRE …
- When the alarm sounds, leave immediately; don’t stop for valuables. Close the door as you leave. Do NOT use elevators. Take the stairs.
- Feel the door. If it’s too hot to touch with the back of your hand, that means the fire is right outside.
- Crawl if you get caught in smoke.
- Once out, stay out. NEVER go back into a burning house. Call 911 once you are safely outside.