City of Reading
Fire Department - Additional Fire Safety Tips
Fire hazards to look for:
· Flammable
liquids and chemicals (like paints) should be stored in
metal containers with tightly closed lids.
· Frayed,
worn or cracked cords on electrical devices and appliances
should be discarded.
· Do
not overload electrical outlets with extension cords.
· Do
not run extension cords under carpets, across walkways
or near heat sources.
· Space
heaters should be kept at least 5 feet away from curtains,
bedding or other flammable materials.
· The
vents on televisions, stereos and other audio/visual appliances
are not blocked by papers or other clutter.
· Small
appliances should be unplugged after use.
· All
exits should be kept clear.
Kitchen Safety:
· Always keep an eye on food cooking on the stove, in the oven and in the microwave.
· Keep the stovetop clear of towels, pot holders, oven mitts and other flammable materials.
· Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so they cannot be pulled over.
· Never use water to put out an electrical fire or grease fire, because water can make it worse.
Cold-Weather Safety:
· Hire a qualified professional to inspect and clean your furnace.
· Have your chimney or wood-stove pipe clean.
· Make sure the fire in the fireplace is out before going to sleep or leaving home.
· Before you leave a room or go to sleep, turn off space heaters.
· Never get too close to candles, wood stoves, space heaters or fireplaces.
Keep an Eye on Tots:
· Never leave young children alone.
· Do not let young children near the stove or microwave.
· Be sure matches, lighters and other fire hazards are out of the reach of children.
· Watch young children closely around things that can burn, like heaters, irons and fireplaces.
· If someone gets burned, run cold water over the burned area for at least 10 minutes.
· If it blisters, get help right away.
· Every home should have a family fire escape plan.
When fire breaks out:
· If you smell smoke or hear the smoke detector sounding, get out fast.
· Do not stop to take anything.
· Crawl low under the smoke.
· The air is easier to breathe near the floor.
· Test all doors before opening them.
· Feel each door with the back of your hand.
· If the door is not warm, go through it and then close it behind you.
· If fire stops you, go to the nearest room, close the door, and head for the window.
· Get out through the window only if it is safe.
· Do not try it if there is not ladder, or if flames and smoke are coming up from below.
· If the window doesn’t open or is unsafe to use, wave something light-colored or shine a flashlight and yell for help.
· If you are trapped and there’s a phone in the room, call the fire department (DIAL 9-1-1).
· Tell the dispatcher where you are.
· Never use an elevator in a fire.
· Look for stairs.
· One you are outside, STAY OUT! Don’t go back in for any reason.
· Go to your family meeting place and wait for your family.
· If you are alone, call the fire department when you are safely outside.
If your clothes catch fire:
· STOP immediately.
· DROP to the ground.
· ROLL slowly until the flames are out, covering your face with your hands.
PRACTICE FIRE SAFETY EVERY DAY!
Fire Prevention/Fire Code Enforcement Division
· Fire Prevention Inspections and Permits
· Plan Reviews for existing buildings and new construction
· Sprinkler Systems
· Fire Suppression Systems
· Fire Alarm Systems
· Code violation complaints
· Fire Investigations
· Fireworks
Questions concerning the City’s Fire Prevention Division should be directed to:
