Floods and typhoon damage are more common disasters in the Philippines but we must also be prepared for a different type of element: Fire. Which is why we listed some fire safety tips for the family this holiday season.
Make sure that you take steps to prevent a fire from destroying your home but also be prepared in case it happens.
Fire safety tips this holiday season
While gathering with loved ones over the holidays is wonderful, there is a genuine risk of residential fires during this time of year. Here’s what you need to remember to prevent fire in your house.
Inspect your Christmas lights
Prior to using your decorations that have been stored since last year, give them a thorough inspection. You should keep an eye out for any frayed wires and partially broken sockets. Any light strings that are not in good shape should be thrown away.
Before decorating your house with Christmas lights, make sure the light strings are operational. It is advised that the number of light strings you use from one end to the other not exceed three. Be sure to unplug and turn off the lights at the power source before going to bed at night.
Fire safety tips: Do not leave cooking unattended
Aside from decorative lights, cooking is one of the primary causes of holiday fires. It is all too easy to leave cooking food unattended when friends and family are around and lots of dishes need to be prepared; this is the biggest cause of fires. It’s advised to keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and make sure you understand how to use it. In addition, you need to keep in mind where you put the fire extinguisher for easy access in case of fire.
Additionally, keep anything that could catch fire away from the stove, such as paper towels and grocery bags. As soon as possible, clean up any spills, especially those involving grease.
Fire safety tips: Keep candles away from kids
Candle fires are four times more likely to occur in December due to the widespread usage of candles as decorative elements, especially during the holiday season.
Candles should never be left unattended, and you should never go to sleep with a burning candle. Make sure candles are high enough on surfaces that are well out of reach of curious fingers if you have youngsters living with you.
Image from shutterstock
Other reminders to prevent fire
Here are some fire prevention reminders that each family should keep in mind.
1. Conduct a fire drill.
Consider different fire locations and make sure everyone participates. Everyone has to be out within 2 minutes and at the designated meeting place. Do this at least annually. This will not only keep the knowledge fresh in everyone’s minds, but it will also allow you to spot any new obstructions or hazards. If it has been awhile since your last fire drill, now would be a good time to have one.
2. Check fire exits.
There should be at least two ways to escape from every room – and everyone in the household should know. All rooms used for sleeping should have a big-enough window to the outside of the house. Make sure that they aren’t locked and can be easily opened. Some families place grills on their windows to prevent akyat-bahay operations. Perhaps getting a bank safety deposit box would be wiser?
3. Check appliances.
Have a licensed electrician check for overloading, especially when you increase the number of appliances. To avoid overheating, there should be enough space around the appliance.
4. Do not be cheap.
There is a time to be kuripot – do not try to cut costs when it comes to items that could potentially cause fires. Christmas lights should have been inspected by the Department of Trade and Industry. Cheap butane canisters should not be refilled with LPG, a practice which triggered the fire in Cebu last month.
5. Keep fire and heat away from combustible materials.
Do not leave Christmas lights on overnight and make sure that they are placed far from curtains. Never smoke in bed and never leave candles unattended.
6. Teach the children.
Regularly remind them about the dangers of fire, matches and lighters. Keep them out of reach!
Fire safety reminders during a fire
1. GET OUT, STAY OUT and call for help
Ideally, all family members manage to escape – do not run back to save your things. The national emergency hotline is 117 but it would be also good to know the number of the fire station nearest to your home.
2. Crawl low under smoke.
Most fire-related deaths are caused by smoke inhalation, not by the actual fire itself. Take time to practice this.
3. Never open doors that are warm to the touch.
Use the second exit, or if you are trapped, place a wet towel under the door. Wave a brightly-colored cloth or use a flashlight to signal for help from an open window.
4. Stop, drop and roll.
If someone’s clothes catch fire, this is what to do to put the flames out.
Updates by Jobelle Macayan
Read: Avoid firework injuries and keep your family safe on New Year’s Eve
Read more fire safety tips from the Philippine Red Cross, and more importantly, apply them to ensure your family’s safety. If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the topic, please share them in our Comment box below. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Google+ to stay up-to-date on the latest from theAsianparent.com Philippines!
