American Red Cross in Greater New York

Make Your Home Fire Safe

• Install smoke alarms outside of each sleeping area and on each level of your home, as well as in your bedroom if you sleep with the door closed. Smoke alarms save lives.
• Use the test button to check each smoke alarm once a month. Replace dead batteries immediately.
• Replace all batteries at least once a year.
• Vacuum away cobwebs and dust from your smoke alarms monthly.
• Replace your smoke alarms every ten years. Smoke alarms become less sensitive over time.
• Have a fire extinguisher(s) in your home and know how to use it. Local fire departments will show you how. Recharge your extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions.  
• Consider installing an automatic fire sprinkler system in your home.
• Read our Indoor Heating, Fireplace and Generator Safety Guide

Plan Your Escape Routes

• Determine at least two ways to escape from every room of your home.
• Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second or third floor. Learn how to use them and store them near windows.
• Select a location outside your home where everyone can meet after escaping.
• Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.

Escape Safely

• Once you are out, stay out! Call the fire department from a neighbor's home.
• Use your second way out if smoke or fire blocks your escape route. If you must exit through smoke, crawl low under the smoke to your exit. The cleanest air is near the floor.
• If you plan to escape through a closed door, feel the door with the back of your hand before opening it. If it is warm, do not open the door. Use your second way out.
• Stay in the room with the door closed if smoke, heat or flames block your exit routes. Signal for help using a bright-colored cloth at a window. If there is a phone in the room, call the fire department and tell them where you are.
• Drop to the floor and roll if your clothes catch fire in order to suffocate the fire. Running from the fire only "fans” the flames and makes the situation worse.