The Florence Fire Department provides information to encourage citizens to plan for unexpected emergencies or a disaster.  Your ability to be selfsufficient, especially in the first 72 hours, can help minimize the impact of a disaster.  Two very important steps you can take are to have an emergency plan and to prepare an emergency supply kit. 

Smoke Alarms

Have a working smoke alarm on each level of your home and outside bedrooms.
Test smoke alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
Install smoke alarms away from air vents.
Install smoke alarms on the ceiling or wall, at least 4 inches from the corners.
When affixed to walls, smoke alarms should be between 4 and 12 inches from the ceiling.
Never disable or remove smoke alarm batteries.
Escape Planning

Develop a fire escape plan with the members of your household and practice often.
Know two ways to exit from every room in your home.
Make sure that safety bars on windows can be opened from inside your home.
Crawl low - under smoke.
Feel closed doors.  If hot, use another exit.
Identify a place to meet outside in case of fire.  Never reenter a burning building.
Escape first.  Then call 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.
Fire Safety

Keep clothes, blankets, curtains and other combustibles at least three feet from portable heaters.
Place portable heaters where they will not tip over easily.
Have chimneys cleaned and inspected annually by a professional.
Clear the area around the hearth of debris, flammables and decorative materials.
Always use a metal mesh screen with fireplaces and leave glass doors open while burning a fire.
Never leave cooking unattended.
Never overload electrical sockets.
Never leave cigarettes unattended.
Never smoke in bed.