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Fires
in manufactured homes (mobile homes or trailer
houses) claim the lives of 400 Americans each year
and injure 1,000 more. Many of these fires are
caused by heating and electrical system
malfunctions and improper storage of combustibles.
The
Abilene Fire Department would like Citizens know
that there are simple steps you can take to
prevent the loss of life and property in home
fires.
THE
PROBLEM
During
a typical year in the U.S., manufactured homes
account for 21,000 fires, hundreds of deaths and
$180 million in property losses. An estimated 11
million Americans live in manufactured homes,
where fire deaths occur at twice the rate of fire
deaths in other types of homes.
THE
FACTS
Young
children account for more than one-fifth of all
fire deaths in manufactured homes. A recent study
of rural fires showed that smoke alarms were less
likely to be present or operating in manufactured
homes.
THE
CAUSE
Electrical
system malfunctions and heating fires are the
leading causes of fire in manufactured homes.
Together, they account for one-third of
manufactured housing fires. Electrical
distribution fires occur nearly twice as often in
manufactured homes as in one- and two-family
dwellings.
SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS
-
Have
a minimum of two smoke alarms installed in
your home regardless of sleeping space
arrangements.
-
Install
smoke alarms in accordance with smoke alarm
manufacturer guidelines. Test your smoke
alarms once a month and replace the
batteries at least once a year.
-
Maintain
your home heating system by having it
serviced at least once a year by a
professional.
-
Do
not store combustibles or flammables near
heat sources.
-
Never
overload outlets, extension cords or
electrical circuits. If the circuit breaker
trips or fuses blow, immediately call a
licensed electrician to check your system.
-
Have
an escape plan and practice escape routes
with your family. Have two ways out.
-
Do
not use portable space heaters in
manufactured homes.
-
Install
skirting material to keep leaves and other
debris and combustible items from blowing
under your manufactured home.
-
When
considering a new home, ask if residential
sprinklers are available as an option.
-
If
there is a fire - get out immediately, go to
a neighbor's and notify the fire department
using the 911 system or the proper local
emergency number in your area
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