Do not let your home become a fire statistic

During Fire Prevention Month in October, the American Red Cross of Southwestern New York is helping residents of Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua Counties protect themselves and property with fire prevention tips.

Each year, more than 4,000 Americans die in fires, more than 25,000 are injured, and more than 100 firefighters are killed while on duty. Eighty three percent of all civilian fire deaths occurred in residences. The most devastating statistic? Many of these fires could have been prevented.

In order to protect yourself, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fire. Fire moves fast - in just two minutes fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames. Fire produces gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may actually fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three-to-one ratio. Finally, fire is hot - heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames. Inhaling the superhot air can sear your lungs and can cause severe burns from things such as doorknobs.

The best way to keep a fire from hurting your family is to put fire prevention practices in place. Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Properly working smoke alarms decrease your chances of dying in a fire by half. They can detect smoke and wake you up so you can leave the home. Place smoke alarms on every level of your residence, including the basement. Install a working carbon monoxide detector in the common area near the bedrooms. Test and clean smoke alarms once a month and replace batteries at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms every ten years.

Common causes of home fires start with heating sources. When using space heaters, place at least three feet away from flammable/combustible materials and use only the type of fuel designed for your space heater. Check all furnaces and stoves before heating your home. Clean all flumes and vents.

For more fire prevention tips visit www.redcross.org/swny or call your local Red Cross office in Jamestown at 716-664-5115, in Olean at 716-372-5800, and in Wellsville at 585-593-1531. The American Red Cross of Southwestern New York is a United Way Agency.