[ Smoke Detectors ] [ Fire Escape Plans ] [ Change Your Batteries ] [ Get Out of Our Way ] [ Kitchen Fires ] [ Reporting a Fire ] [ Holiday Safety ]

Many home fires happen at night, between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., while most of us are sleeping.

The Bath Volunteer Fire Department

wants to make sure your family can protect itself by knowing the following six steps.

1. Smoke detectors should be installed on each level of your home and outside sleeping areas.  Smoke detectors sound an early warning while escape is still possible.  Test detectors monthly and replace batteries twice a year.

2. Have a home fire escape plan.  Draw your house out on paper and have at least two ways out of every room.  Check windows to make sure they open easily and have escape ladders available.  Designate a place for everyone to meet once they get outside.

3. Practice your plan. Use both primary and secondary escape routes while practicing.  If necessary make changes.  Fire drills are not just for schools.

4. If possible, sleep with your bedroom door closed.  In the event of fire a door can hold back smoke and fire, increasing your chances to survive.               

5. When awakened by your smoke detector, roll out of bed onto the floor and crawl to your bedroom door.  Test the door with the back of your hand, for heat.  Feel it first high then low, and touch the knob.  If the door is hot, do not open it, use your secondary exit to escape.  If your door is cool, open it slowly and be prepared to slam it shut if you see smoke or fire.

6. Go to your designated meeting place.  Have someone go to a neighbor's to call the fire department.  Remember once you're outside never go back into a burning building.