Here are some safety tips that may help you

[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]October is fire prevention month and during October, I would like to educate the public about Fire Safety and Prevention strategies. In this article I would like to address Fire Safety for people with special needs. I define this group as anyone with a disability and the senior citizen population. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]I am a disabled, quadriplegic, firefighter with 15+ years of experience including holding the positions of Captain, Training Officer, Safety Officer, and Commissioner. I have taught fire prevention to small groups, but until I became disabled only touched on fire safety for people with special needs. Due to my disability it is hard for me to type so I have borrowed some information from the U.S. Fire Administration and the NFPA. These are just two of many organizations that have fire resource information.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]According to the USFA, U.S. Fire Administration, approximately 4,000 Americans die and 20,000 are injured in fires each year. The risk of death or injury from fire is even greater for people with physical, mental or sensory disabilities. Decreased mobility, health, sight, and hearing may limit a person’s ability to take the quick action necessary to escape during a fire emergency. I would like to take a moment to address a special concern.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If a fire occurs in your home, your chances of escape and avoiding injury will depend on how quickly you are able ability to react in an emergency. Alerting the fire department and your ability to hastily either put a barrier between you and the fire by either shutting a door or by getting out of harms way. These simple steps apply to all disabled and able body alike.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]People with disabilities are typically fiercely independent but should recognize their own limitations. People with disabilities and do not wish to alter their lives from those of the general public. However, this can lead them to ignore their special fire safety needs. Knowing your physical limitations and allowing potential rescuers to be aware of your needs will increase survival chances. The time to act is now. Contact your local Fire/EMS as well as law enforcementand and advise them of your special needs. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]In some cases people with disabilities may need the help of a caregiver to practice proper fire safety precautions. Planning and being prepared for what to do in the[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]event of a fire is especially important for people who require additional time in order to escape safely.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]The key to planning is to know your abilities. What will you need help to escape? Can you hear the Smoke Alarm if it sounds? Knowing the answers to these questions may save your life in the event of an emergency. [B]Be ready to call: [/B]Make sure the Fire Department knows of your disability/special needs, and that you may need extra help. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If you need help contact your local fire department’s non-emergency line and explain your special needs. They will probably come to your home and help suggest fire escape plan ideas. Many fire departments may perform a home fire safety inspection and offer suggestions about smoke alarm placement and maintenance.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]

[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Here are some Fire Safety tips that I have compiled:[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]

[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms:[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]People with disabilities should be aware of the special fire warning devices that are available.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Smoke alarms with a vibrating pad or flashing light are available for the deaf or hard of hearing. Additionally, smoke alarms with a strobe light outside the house to catch the attention of neighbors, and emergency call systems for summoning help are also available. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Ask the manager of your building, or a friend or relative to install at least one smoke alarm on each level of your home.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Audible alarms should pause with a small window of silence between each successive cycle so that blind or visually impaired people can listen to instructions or voices of others. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Some smoke alarms are equipped with large, easy to use testing buttons. Alarms can be tested using a flashlight or a television remote are particularly helpful for people with mobility disabilities.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Make sure your smoke alarms are tested monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Smoke alarms should be replaced every eight to ten years.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Live Near an Exit[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Although people with disabilities have the legal right to live where you choose, you’ll be safest on the ground floor if you live in an apartment building or muti story home.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If you live in a multi-story home, arrange to sleep on the first floor. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Being on the ground floor and near an exit will make your escape easier.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Mark your address clearly on your home in large reflective numbers so that fire fighters can see it easily from the street.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Plan Your Escape create a Home Escape Plan[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Draw a floor plan of your home on a large sheet of paper or use grid paper.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Check to make sure you have included every door and window that you can use as an exit.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Draw all outdoor features or possible obstacles that might keep you from escaping through windows and doors.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Draw arrows in red to show the best way out of each room.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Draw arrows in blue to show the second way out of each room.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Choose a meeting place in front of your home and mark it on the escape plan.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Practice the escape plan using the best way out of your sleeping area.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Practice the second way out of your sleeping area.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=black]Arrange to call [/COLOR][COLOR=black]9-1-1[/COLOR][COLOR=black] from a neighbor’s house.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR]
[COLOR=red][COLOR=black][FONT=Symbol][SIZE=3]·[/SIZE] [/FONT][/COLOR][COLOR=black][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman]Update the plan as needed.[/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR][/COLOR]
[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Note: Know two ways out, so you can escape. Make sure that you and everyone in your family can follow both ways out.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Plan your escape around your capabilities. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red][B]Practice helping the disabled safely escape in the event of smoke filling the house. [/B]If they are unable to get down on the floor and crawl safely, they can be dragged along the floor while lying on a blanket. Even a heavy person can be transported relatively easily across smooth floors in this manner. You may have to get a second person to pull the blanket.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Know at least two exits from every room. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Being on the ground floor and near an exit will make your escape easier. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Close doors behind you if possible.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If necessary, have a ramp available for emergency exits. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Unless instructed by the fire department, never use an elevator during a fire. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If you encounter smoke, stay low to the ground to exit your home. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Make any necessary accommodations, such as providing exit ramps and widening doorways, to facilitate an emergency escape. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Practice escaping from every room in the home. The best plans have two ways to get out of each room. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly and that security bars can be properly opened. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Don’t Isolate Yourself[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]People with disabilities have often been excluded from the development and practicing of escape plans and fire safety drills. As a result, their vital input is omitted and their fire safety needs remain unfulfilled. Speak up to ensure that all parties receive the fire safety information that everyone deserves.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Speak to your family members, care giver, building manager, or even your neighbors about your fire safety plan and practice it with them. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Consider a home alarm system[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If you must escape through smoke, remember to crawl or stay low, under the smoke if possible and keep your mouth covered. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Feel doors with back of your hand. Never open doors that are hot to the touch. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Designate a meeting place outside the building and take attendance. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Once out, stay out! Remember to escape first, then call 9-1-1[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Ask emergency providers to keep your special needs information on file. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Notify the Fire dpartment in advance if you use oxygen in the home. Have a portable tank nearby in the event of emergency.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep a phone near your bed and be ready to call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number if a fire/emergency occurs.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Consider using a home alert button if you live alone. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]When staying in hotels insist on first floor accomendations. Also know which way to go in the event of fire. Count the number of doors to the fire escape[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST]

[B][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Reduce Fire Risks[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/B]

[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red][B][COLOR=black][B]Cooking Safety[/B][/COLOR][/B][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Cook when you are alert. Do not cook if you are drowsy or if you feel the effects of alcohol, medication, or other drugs. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not wear loose-fitting clothes when you cook. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Roll your sleeves over your elbows when you cook. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep all items that can burn away from the stove. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not hang a towel on the oven handle. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Never leave a stove unattended while cooking. Turn off the stove if you must step away, even for a moment.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep children and pets away. Create a three-foot safe-zone around the stove. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep a lid nearby to smother any flames. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep handles of the pans turned in. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Use a timer to remind you when your food is ready. As soon as the timer goes off, turn off the stove. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not move hot water from the stove to the sink. Use ladles or scoops to remove food from boiling pots. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]When you take hot items from the stove or oven, use a cart to transport these items. Never place hot pans in your lap. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep the area around your stove clean. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not allow grease to build up around the stove. Built-up grease can catch on fire. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red][B][COLOR=black][B]If There Is a Fire[/B][/COLOR][/B][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If a pan of food catches on fire, keep the lid between you and the fire, as if it were a shield. Slide the lid on top of the pan. Turn off the burner, and then slide the pan to a cooler surface. Call 9-1-1. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Never use water to put out a grease fire. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red][B][COLOR=black][B]Smoking Safety[/B][/COLOR][/B][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Smoking and smoking materials are the number one cause of fatal home fires. If you smoke, you and your family are at greater risk for fire, burns, and death. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Never smoke in bed. If a cigarette fire starts in your bed, you are too close to the fire and may not be able to escape. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Never leave a lit cigarette. Put it out. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not smoke when drinking alcohol or taking prescription medication that makes you drowsy. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not smoke in upholstered chairs. Smoke at a table. Do not use a tablecloth. Keep flammable items (such as napkins) away. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep the smoking area free of clutter. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep lighters and matches where children cannot get them. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Always use ashtrays that are deep and will not tip over. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Only use ashtrays to dispose of cigarettes. Do not put trash in them. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Before you dump cigarette butts in a trash can, pour water on the butts. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Never smoke in areas where oxygen is being used. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red] [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red][B][COLOR=black][B]Electrical Appliances[/B][/COLOR][/B][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Immediately unplug any appliances that spark, smell unusual, or overheat. Replace them or have them repaired. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Be careful of cords. Do not run over electrical cords with your wheelchair or scooter. You can damage these cords. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]When an electrical cord frays or cracks, replace it. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not put electrical cords or wires under rugs. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If you use an extension cord, unroll it all the way to keep it from retaining heat. Do not leave it coiled in any way. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Make sure that lamps and night lights do not touch any fabrics or furniture. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If you have young children in your home, cover the unused outlets with plastic covers. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not overload outlets. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Make sure that you place plugs in the proper type of outlet. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Polarized plugs (one prong is wider than the other) require polarized outlets. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Three-prong plugs require outlets with three holes to properly ground the plug. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Never force a plug into an outlet when it will not fit. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Make sure the area where you charge your wheelchair battery is well-ventilated and clear of debris. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]If a fuse blows or a circuit breaker trips, do not just replace or reset it. Find out what is overloading the system, and correct the problem. If the overload is not readily apparent, have a licensed electrician check out the circuit. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red][B][COLOR=black][B]Fireplace Safety[/B][/COLOR][/B][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heat sources. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not wear loose-fitting clothes near open flames. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Use old, dry wood in your fireplace. New or wet wood is more dangerous. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Use a fire screen. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Every year, at the beginning of winter, inspect your chimney for cracks or obstructions. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Once a year, have a professional clean your fireplace. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red][B][COLOR=black][B]Space Heaters Safety[/B][/COLOR][/B][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
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[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Space heaters are a fire risk. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Use only space heaters with a UL label. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Make sure that your space heater has an automatic switch to turn it off if it falls over. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Give your space heater 3 feet of space in all directions. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Keep furniture, bedding, and clothes 3 feet away from space heaters. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Use the space heater for short periods. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Do not go to bed with the space heater on. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Always unplug your space heater when not in use. [/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]
[*][SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Always use the proper fuel.[/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE][/LIST]

[SIZE=3][FONT=Times New Roman][COLOR=red]Although these fire safety tips are designed for people with special needs, able bodied people can also benefit from these ideas. If you live in the North Spartanburg Fire District contact us about your special needs. If you’re not in the district let your fire department know who you are and your special needs will improve your chances of surviving an emergency. I recommend that you advise all your local emergency, including law enforcement and EMS, responders of your special needs. Don’t just practice fire safety in October, but all year long. [B]Preparing and planning for emergencies before they happen is the key to safety.[/B][/COLOR][/FONT][/SIZE]

[COLOR=red]Liz[/COLOR]
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[COLOR=#ff0000]To answer your question is now is the time to find out how fast you can move. Ask your local fire department for help.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=red]I am not an expert but maybe the alarms should be relocated.[/COLOR]