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The most recent figures from the National Fire Incident Reporting System show that properly installed smoke detectors can actually double your chance of survival in the event of a fire. Make sure you have at least one on each floor of your home with one located outside each sleeping area (i.e. if there are three bedrooms at the end of a hallway, one detector could be used to cover all three rooms, but if one bedroom is at one end of the hallway and there is another at the other end, separate detectors should be used).
Change Detector Batteries Regularly Most fire safety experts agree that the batteries should be changed at least twice a year. "We like to tell people to change the batteries when they change their clocks in the fall and spring," Wiseman says. Also, never remove the batteries without installing new ones immediately. The smoke detector can't work if it isn't connected to its power source.
Have An Escape Plan Draw a floor plan of each level of your home. Make sure everyone in your family can identify two escape routes to use in case of a fire. Practice the plan regularly, including where everyone will report once they get out of the house. Everyone should be taught to never re-enter a burning building.
Sleep With Your Bedroom Doors Closed Since most home fires happen at night, this can add valuable minutes of protection against smoke, fire and lethal gases. Always touch the door before opening it. If it feels hot or warm, keep it closed and use your alternate route.
Remember That Smoke and Hot Air Rise It is estimated that three-fourths of all fire victims die from smoke inhalation and lack of oxygen. Stay close to the ground to keep from inhaling hot smoke or toxic fumes.
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