You never know when a fire will strike and the Tempe Fire Department would like to remind you how to prepare for a fire.
Plan your escape, finding two ways out of every room. Agree on a meeting place outside your home to gather.
Make sure everyone in the household can unlock all windows and doors, even in the dark. If you live in an apartment and there’s a fire, never use an elevator, but always take the stairs. Install and regularly test your smoke detectors. Replace batteries on smoke alarms every year and replace the alarms every 10 years.
In case of fire, get out and don’t stop for anything. If you encounter smoke, use an alternate route. If you must go through smoke, crawl on your hands and knees. Test doors with the back of your hand before using them. If the door is warm, use a different exit. If you are trapped, close all doors between you and the fire and stuff clothes and towels to keep out smoke.
Once you’re out, stay out. Firefighters have the best chance of rescuing other family members or pets.
In case of a fire, call 911. For more information, visit www.tempe.gov/fire
