Mississippi is one of the top states in the nation for fire-related deaths. Smoke alarms in good working condition can save lives and property.
Smoke alarms provide an early warning of fire and dangerous smoke, allowing you the opportunity to escape. Smoke alarms will not prevent fires, but they do increase the chance for you to get out safely.
Smoke alarms need to be maintained in order to stay in proper working condition. The new year is a good time to check batteries and test the alarms around your house. Winter and seasonal holidays bring the risk of fire from portable heaters, cooking, careless smoking and the exposure of children to fire sources such as matches.
Those at highest risk of death by fire or smoke are older adults, children younger than five years old, and people in substandard housing or mobile homes.
Fire Safety Tips
- Develop a fire escape plan for your home that includes two ways out of every room.
- Make sure windows and doorways open easily. Plan and practice a home fire drill.
- Regularly inspect your home for fire hazards.
- Never leave children unattended near hot stoves or burning candles, even for a short time. Children should cook only under adult supervision. Teach children not to play with matches or lighters.
- Keep a safe distance from a fireplace, wood stove or other type of heater where clothes could easily catch fire. Use fireplace screens and inspect and clean fireplaces each year.
- Turn off room heaters, lights, stereos, TVs and other electrical equipment when not in use.
- Use heavy safety ashtrays if you smoke in the home, and discard ashes and butts in metal, sealed containers.
