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Each year, fire
claims the lives of 5,000 Americans and injures
more than 25,000. Bedrooms are a common area of
fire origin. Nearly 1,000 lives are lost to fires
that start in bedrooms. Many of these fires are
caused by misuse or poor maintenance of electrical
devices, such as overloading extension cords or
using portable space heaters too close to
combustibles. Many other bedroom fires are caused
by children who play with matches and lighters,
careless smoking among adults, and arson.
The United
States Fire Administration (USFA) and the Sleep
Products Safety Council (SPSC) would like you to
know that there are simple steps you can take to
prevent the loss of life and property resulting
from bedroom fires.
Kids and Fire: A Bad
Match
Children are
one of the highest risk groups for deaths in
residential fires. At home, children usually play
with fire - lighters, matches and other ignitables
- in bedrooms, in closets, and under beds. These
are "secret" places where there are a
lot of things that catch fire easily.
- Children of all ages
set over 100,000 fires annually. Over 30% of
fires that kill children are set by children
playing with fire.
- Every year over 800
children nine years and younger die in home
fires.
- Keep matches and
lighters locked up and away from children.
Check under beds and in closets for burnt
matches, evidence your child may be playing
with matches.
- Teach your child that
fire is a tool, not a toy.
Appliances Need Special
Attention
Bedrooms are
the most common room in the home where electrical
fires start. Electrical fires are a special
concern during winter months which call for more
indoor activities and increases in lighting,
heating, and appliance use.
- Do not trap electric
cords against walls where heat can build up.
- Take extra care when
using portable heaters. Keep bedding,
clothes, curtains and other combustible
items at least three feet away from space
heaters.
- Only use lab-approved
electric blankets and warmers. Check to make
sure the cords are not frayed.
Tuck Yourself In For A
Safe Sleep
Finally, having
working smoke alarms dramatically increases your
chances of surviving a fire. Place at least one
smoke alarm on each level of your home and in
halls outside bedrooms. And remember to practice a
home escape plan frequently with your family.
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