Smoke alarms save lives by alerting people to the dangers of smoke. Smoke is poisonous. It is what kills most people in a fire. It is important to take the smoke alarm seriously and act quickly when it sounds. Never cover, paint or remove smoke alarms. Remember to change batteries yearly or if the smoke alarm “chirps.”
If the smoke alarm sounds:
1. Fire spreads quickly. Get out fast and stay out.
2. If possible, close doors to confine the fire.
3. If you encounter smoke, crawl under it to your exit.
4. Go to the outside meeting place and call 9-1-1 as quickly as possible. Tell the operator your language if you don’t speak English.
5. Once out, stay out. Never go back inside a burning building.
If you can’t escape (Shelter in place for apartments):
1. If smoke or fire blocks your first exit, try your second escape route.
2. If you live in an apartment, seek refuge inside a room with a window. Go to the window and wave so firefighters can see you, but do not open it.
3. Close all doors between you and the fire. Place towels or bedding at the base of the door to keep smoke from coming in.
4. If possible, call 9-1-1 to report your exact location.