As a resident of Montgomery, it's crucial to take proactive measures to prevent fires from occurring in your home. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), most residential fires are caused by human error, such as unattended cooking or electrical malfunctions.
To minimize the risk of fire, make sure to install smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside each sleeping area. Test them monthly and replace batteries annually. Additionally, keep flammable materials like curtains and towels at least 3 feet away from heat sources.
Power outages can be frustrating, but they also pose a significant risk of fire. When the lights go out, make sure to unplug appliances and electronics to prevent overheating.
If you're using flashlights or lanterns for lighting, keep them away from flammable materials like curtains and bedding. Never use candles or open flames as a light source during an outage.
In the event of a fire, it's crucial to act quickly and calmly. Make sure all household members know at least two ways out of each room and designate a meeting spot outside the home.
Once you've escaped, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Don't attempt to fight the fire yourself, as this can put you and others in danger.