Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

Carbon monoxide detectors are the only way to provide warning of dangerous levels of this colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas.  Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete combustion of any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, charcoal, and wood.  These fuels are burned around the home in auto engines, furnaces, fireplaces, woodstoves, portable heaters, water heaters, grills,  and other appliances.  Dangerous  fuel levels can accumulate when fuel is improperly burned or inadequate ventilation does not allow the gas escape.  

Follow these safety tips to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Choose fuel-burning appliances that vent fumes to the outside whenever possible.
  
• Install and maintain all fuel-burning appliances according to manufacturer instructions. 

• Have all fuel-burning appliances and ventilation and chimney systems professionally inspected at least once a year.

• Never use a gas oven to heat your home, even for a short time.

• Never idle an automobile in the garage, even for a short time with the garage door open.

• Never use a charcoal grill indoors, even in the fireplace.
  
• Don’t sleep in a room with an unvented gas or kerosene space heater.

• Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:  shortness of breath, dizziness, confusion, headaches, and nausea.  Immediately leave your home and go to an emergency room if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
 
• Install a carbon monoxide detector certified by the Underwriters Laboratory (UL).  However, do not rely solely on a detector for carbon monoxide safety.  Prevention is the key to avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Click here for more information on carbon monoxide poisoning from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Smoke Detectors:

Smoke detectors are inexpensive devices that save many lives.  Detectors can provide the early warning needed to safely evacuate your home. 

• A detector should be installed in every bedroom and common area of your home, including the basement.

• Test smoke detectors once a month and replace batteries once a year, or if the unit begins “chirping” to indicate batteries are low.  Although many newer homes have smoke detectors wired for electricity, maintaining backup batteries is important in the event your home’s electricity fails during a fire.

• Regularly clean detectors by vacuuming over and around the unit because dust and debris can interfere with proper functioning.

• Replace smoke detectors every 8-10 years.

Sprinkler System:

Use only licensed contractors to install an automatic sprinkler system and check with local authorities for specific requirements.

Fire Extinguishers:




 

Portable fire extinguishers enable quick response to small fires that may otherwise quickly grow out of control.

• Extinguishers are rated by the type of fire they can effectively extinguish:

             A- wood or cloth fires
             B- flammable liquid fires
             C- electrical fires
             D- flammable liquid fires

• Check fire extinguishers annually and recharge after each use.  Many extinguishers are equipped with a readiness gauge.                                                                                                              
• Train all household members on fire extinguisher locations and proper use.  The acronym “PASS” is a helpful reminder on proper use:

P- Pull the pin
A- Aim the extinguisher
S- Squeeze the trigger
S- Sweep the extinguisher at the base of the fire

Escape Route:

Illustration courtesy of www.earth1.net/~safd/Kids_Only/escape.gif

Even with early warning from a smoke detector, escaping a house on fire can be difficult. By planning and practicing exit drills, you can better prepare your family for a fire emergency.

For tips on creating a family disaster plan, click here.

Candle Safety:

Proper candle safety can help prevent most candle fire incidents.  Candles are a safe product but become dangerous when improperly used.  The National Candle Association recommends the following safety tips when burning candles:

• Do not leave a burning candle unattended.

• Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.

• Trim wicks to Ό inch before lighting.

• Use a heat-resistant, sturdy candleholder large enough to  contain drips and melted wax.

• Keep burning candles away from drafts, vents, and air currents.

• Burn candles in a well-ventilated room.

• Do not burn candles longer than recommended.

• Extinguish the flame when 2 inches of wax remain or ½ inch if in a container.

• Extinguish candles safely by using a candle snuffer, which helps prevent spattering hot wax.

Heating System:

Heat your home safely when using woodstoves and fireplaces. 

• Install and use units according to manufacturer directions.

• Never use a flammable liquid such as gasoline to start a fire.

• Do not use excesssive amounts of paper or any colored paper to start a fire.  This can accelerate creosote build-up and increase risk of a chimney fire.  A fire hazard exists if 1/4 inch or more of creostoe coats the inner wall of a chimney.
 
• Use metal mesh or glass screens in front of fireplaces to prevent sparks and embers from escaping.

• Keep flammable materials at least 3 feet away from woodstoves and fireplaces.

• Build a big, hot burning fire for 10-15 minutes several times a week to help reduce creosote build-up.  Burn dry wood for more efficient burning.

• Dispose of hot ashes in a metal ash container and wait a minimum of 7 days before again moving them.

• Know the signs of a chimney fire.  Immediately call the fire department and evacuate your home if you notice roaring/sucking sounds, shaking stovepipes, or flames coming out of the chimney.

• Have your chimney professionally inspected at least once a year and after any chimney fire.

Flammable Paint and Products:

Paint, automotive, and other household products can become a hazardous material when stored or disposed of improperly. All such products should be stored in a cool, dry place away from any heat source.

Many products commonly used around the home are flammable and toxic.  They should be used or taken to a hazardous waste facility.

Rollers, rags, brushes, and other materials used during application can spontaneously catch fire if not disposed of properly. Follow the manufacturer’s labeled directions for cleanup and disposal.

For residents living in unincorporated areas of the county, contact the County of San Diego Department of Environmental Health for more information:

Hotline: 1-877-R-1-EARTH

Website: DEH Household Hazardous Waste Program

Those residing within municipal jurisdictions should contact their city government for information on local household hazardous waste programs and facilities.