How to create a Family Fire Emergency Plan
Keeping your home and family safe from fire is crucial, and regular maintenance of fire safety equipment is a key part of this. Here’s a handy guide on what checks to make and when to ensure your fire safety gear is always in top shape.
Smoke Alarms, Heat Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Weekly Checks:
- Test the Alarm: Press the test button to ensure it sounds.
Annually:
- Replace Batteries: Most Smoke & Heat alarms are mains powered with a 9v battery backup. We recommend replacing the battery at least annually to ensure reliability. Wireless units are normally fitted with a 10 Year sealed lithium battery and if depleted will give a short beep. When selecting a Carbon Monoxide Detector look for units that have an End-of-Life Indicator.
- Replace the Unit: If your alarm is more than 10 years old.
Fire Extinguishers
Monthly Checks:
- Pressure Gauge: Ensure the needle is in the green zone.
- Pin and Seal: Make sure the pin is intact and the seal is unbroken.
- Physical Condition: Look for any signs of damage, rust, or leakage.
Annually:
- Professional Inspection: Unlike extinguishers in a commercial setting, there is no requirement to have a professional inspect your extinguishers annually. However, if in any doubt, contact a reputable company for advice.
- Replace the Unit: If your extinguisher is more than 10 years old.
Fire Blankets
Monthly Checks:
- Visual Inspection: Ensure the blanket is easily accessible and the container is intact.
- Instruction Clarity: Check that the instructions on the container are legible.
Annually:
- Detailed Check: Inspect the blanket for any signs of damage or wear. If it’s been used, replace it immediately.
- Replace the Unit: If your blanket is more than 7 years old.
Escape Ladders
Monthly Checks:
- Accessibility: Ensure that escape ladders are in their designated place and not obstructed.
- Condition: Check for any signs of wear and tear or damage.
Annually:
- Deployment Test: Practice using the ladder with your family (if safe to do so) to ensure everyone knows how to use it in an emergency.
General Tips
- Log Checks: Keep a maintenance log to track when each check was performed.
- Family Drills: Conduct regular fire drills with your family so everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
- Update Equipment: Stay informed about the latest fire safety technology and consider updating your equipment as new, more effective options become available.
By keeping on top of these maintenance checks, you can ensure your fire safety equipment will function correctly when you need it most. Remember, a small effort in regular maintenance can make a big difference in an emergency.
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Be Smart. Be Prepared. Be Safe.
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