The Off Duty Network - Public Safety Education

Smoke Detectors save lives

Always install an adequate number of smoke detectors, one on each floor, one near the bedrooms, one in the attic and one in the basement.  Replace your smoke detectors batteries when twice a year, when you change your clocks in the spring and fall.

Some tips about using Space Heaters

• Always read manufacturer's instructions and warning labels

• Always be sure to keep flammable materials (solid and liquid) away from heater

• Only use heaters designed for outdoor use in bathrooms, moister can damage parts and create a shock hazard

• Check outlet and plug, making sure the plug fits securely into the outlet.  If not contact qualified electrician to check and possibly replace outlet.  (this goes for all outlets in your home)

• Be sure to unplug heater when not in use and as will all appliance plugs, when removing plugs DO NOT use the cord and be sure to pull the plug straight out.

• Keep all heaters at least three (3) feet away (in all directions) from all objects

• Always place heaters on a flat, level floor and never on furniture.  As the heater could fall and either create a shock hazard or start a fire

• Keep children away from heaters, do not place a heater in a child's room without surpervision

• Do not try and hide heater cords (or any cords) by placing them under rugs or carpet as damage could occur

• Do not use extension cords unless absolutely necessary and if a cord is used be sure to use a minimum of 14 gauge or smaller.  (the smaller the number the larger the wire size)

How safe is your Kitchen

Children are at risk

• Keep children a safe distance from all hot liquids.  A drink heated to 140° F can cause a burn in five seconds.  At 160°  F a burn will occur in one second.  Children are always curious and that along with their movements could spill a hot liquid on them.

• Avoid using tablecloths when there are toddlers in the house.  If a child tried to pull himself up a heavy or hot liquid could fall on them

• Always keep hot items toward the center of the table, to keep children from reaching them

• When cooking keep children in high chair  or playpen and a safe distance from hot surfaces and liquids

• Use extra caution when cooking with oil.  Oil may reach 400° F and instantly cause a sever burn

• Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets near sinks and other wet areas

• Keep appliance cords away from the edge of the counters.  A curious child may pull on it

• Always be sure to use oven mitts or potholders to remove items from stove. Just a little note if they are wet do not use them, heat will transfer faster and the water could convert to steam instantly!!  Personal experience

• Always keep pot handles turned so they can not be pulled or knocked off the stove

• Store "Sweets" away from the stove and oven

• Store potholders, paper towels, seasonings and other cooking items at a safe distance

• Establish a "SAFE AREA" in the kitchen where a child can be placed - away from risk, but under continuous supervision.  Also consider establishing a "NO ZONE"  directly in front of the stove and oven.

Adults are at risk as well

• Always keep pot handles turned so they can not be pulled or knocked off the stove

• Keep clothing from coming in contact with flame or heating element, if needed use elastic band to hold loose clothing up. 

• Turn off the heat or gas before reaching over the stove

• If your sleeve should catch on fire REMAIN CALM and immediately cover burning material with towel or pot holder or go to sink and run cold water over.

• If other parts of your clothing are on fire, immediately  STOP, DROP and ROLL.  Then cool the burn with cold water.