Fire-related issues at home

E.D.I.T.H. (Escape Drills in the Home)

Having a fire escape plan can save your life. Start by drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of every room. Discuss and practice the plan with your family, and agree on a safe meeting spot outside.

Teach everyone how to unlock windows and doors, and keep exits clear of clutter. Make sure all family members recognize the sound of the smoke detector and practice fire drills at least twice a year.

If you live in an apartment or high-rise, know the building’s evacuation plan, use the stairs (never the elevator), and report blocked exits to management. If trapped, seal cracks with a wet cloth, call 911, and signal for help from a window.

In a fire, stay low to the ground to avoid smoke. Test doors with the back of your hand; if hot, find another way out. If cool, open slowly but close quickly if smoke enters. Always close doors behind you to slow the fire's spread.

Planning ahead and practicing regularly can make all the difference. Stay safe, stay prepared.

Smoke Detectors

Did you know smoke detectors should be replaced every 10 years? Aging detectors lose effectiveness, so replacing them helps protect your family and provides access to newer technology.

For optimal protection, install smoke detectors on every level of your home and within 15 feet of bedrooms. Larger homes require more detectors for adequate coverage. Mount them in the center of the ceiling, away from drafts, and at least 10 feet from stoves and showers to avoid false alarms.

The leading cause of non-operational smoke detectors is dead or missing batteries. Test detectors monthly, and replace batteries during daylight savings time to ensure they're always ready when you need them.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and deadly gas produced by incomplete combustion of fossil fuels like oil, natural gas, or coal. Because it can't be detected through sight, taste, or smell, CO poisoning can be fatal before symptoms are noticed. Early symptoms include headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and confusion, which are often mistaken for the flu. As CO levels rise, symptoms worsen, leading to vomiting, unconsciousness, and potential brain damage or death.

Illinois law (Public Act 94-741) mandates that every home be equipped with a carbon monoxide detector within 15 feet of any sleeping area.

Fire Safety

in the home