There are two types of smoke detectors, ionization and photoelectric. Both detectors are equally effective, most important is that the unit “listed” or approved by major testing lab such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Sit down with all members of the family and discuss escape routes to the outside from each room in the residence. Family members should identify a “meeting place” in front of the residence to all members can be accounted for after escape. Whatever plan you develop, it should be practiced.

Most fatal home fires occur at night while everyone is sleeping. Doors to sleeping rooms should be kept shut. If fire strikes, the closed door will protect occupants from both fire and smoke. If you find smoke seeping under the door of your room, DON’T PANIC! Feel the door. If the door is hot use an alternate escape route of go to the nearest window. Make noise to alert others in the residence as well as neighbors. Stay by the window until help arrives. If the door is cool, open the door carefully. If there is smoke in the hallway, close the door and head for the window or alternate escape route. If there is light smoke and no visible flame, stay low and exit the residence quickly alerting others as you head for the door. Once outside the residence, go to the pre-determined meeting place or go to a neighbor’s house to call 9-1-1.

Kitchen fires account for most fires in private residences. The most common cause is unattended cooking on the stove top especially grease laden foods. If you get called away from the kitchen while cooking, turn off the burners. Hot pans or skillets should have the handles turned toward the center of the stove to avoid accidental tipping. Don’t leave towels or napkins near the stove. If a grease fire ignites on the stovetop simply place a lid over the skillet to smother the flames and turn off the burner. If the fire intensifies, leave the residence and call 9-1-1 immediately.