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Burn safety: Protect your child from burns

Fire emergency plan

To prevent injury if a fire occurs:

  • Install smoke alarms. Install at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home inside and outside of all sleeping areas. Clean alarms monthly and push the button on the alarm every month to make sure it works. Use long-life batteries or change them at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms that are more than 10 years old.
  • Learn to use a fire extinguisher. Keep a working fire extinguisher in your home. Place it high on a wall near an exit. Learn how to use the device properly.
  • Teach children to stop, drop and roll. Teach children what to do if their clothes catch on fire. Stop immediately and don't run; drop to the floor and cover the face with hands; and roll on the floor to put out flames.
  • Practice an evacuation plan. Create an evacuation plan and practice it every six months. Determine two ways to exit each room and where to meet outside. Don't use lockable doorknobs on a child's bedroom. Teach your children to leave a smoky area by crawling on the floor.

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