The number one disaster the Maryland Red Cross responds to is fire. Last year alone we assisted almost 3,000 disaster victims.

Make Your Home Fire Safe

• Smoke detectors save lives. Install a battery-powered smoke detector outside each sleeping area and on each additional level of your home.
• Use the test button to check each smoke detector once a month. When necessary, replace batteries immediately. Replace batteries at least once a year.
• Have a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Get training from the fire department in how to use it.

• Determine at least two ways to escape from every room of your home.
• If you must use an escape ladder, be sure everyone knows how to use it.
• Select a location outside your home where everyone would meet after escaping.
• Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.
• Once you are out, stay out!

• If you see smoke in your first escape route, use your second way out. If you must exit through smoke, crawl low under the smoke to escape.
• If you are escaping through a closed door, feel the door before opening it. If it is hot, use your second way out.
• If smoke, heat, or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with the door closed. Signal for help using a bright-colored cloth at the window. If there is a telephone in the room, call the fire department and tell them where you are.

  For more information about fire safety, you can contact us immediately online or call 410-624-2040.