FAQ
Fire Safety
How do I create a home fire escape plan?
Every household should have a fire escape plan and practice it twice a year. Follow these steps to create your plan:
- Draw a floor plan of your home showing all rooms, doors, and windows
- Mark two escape routes from each room (door and window)
- Choose a meeting place outside and away from the home
- Teach everyone to test doors for heat before opening
- Practice crawling low under smoke
- Designate someone to help young children, elderly, or pets
Important: Once you're out, stay out! Never go back inside a burning building. Call 911 from a safe location and let firefighters do the rescue work.
More Answers About Fire Safety
Fire Safety
Can I get a free smoke detector?
The Briaroaks Fire Department purchases a limited number of smoke alarms for distribution to residents who may otherwise not be able to afford them. Please submit a contact form with your request and someone will be in contact to discuss the options with you. The fire department can also assist...
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Fire Safety
How do I prevent kitchen fires?
Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fires. Follow these safety tips to prevent cooking fires:Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling foodKeep flammables away from the stovetop (towels, packaging, curtains)Turn pot handles inward to prevent spills and burnsKeep a lid nearby to smother grease fires -...
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Fire Safety
Why is my smoke alarm chirping?
If the detector is chirping and no sign of fire or smoke is present, replace the battery as soon as possible. Without a working battery, a smoke detector can't do its job and the risk of dying in a fire increases greatly. Smoke detector batteries should be changed when you...
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Crawl Low Under Smoke
Smoke and toxic gases rise to the ceiling first. In a fire, the breathable air is closest to the floor. If you encounter smoke while escaping, get down on your hands and knees and crawl to the nearest exit. Just a few breaths of toxic smoke can cause disorientation and loss of consciousness.
Cooking Fires Are the #1 Cause
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Unattended cooking is by far the biggest contributing factor. Never leave the kitchen while something is on the stove, and keep flammable items like towels and paper away from the burner.