John Lamb from the American Red Cross

Today's speaker was John Lamb from the American Red Cross who talked to the Club about Fire Safety.

If there is a fire in the house you have 2 minutes to get out before you and your family is in danger. Americans have a false sense of security. The average American thinks that as long as you are out in 5 minutes then you are safe. This is false.  Forty percent of fire related deaths are due to asphixiation and smoke inhalation.

 

The Red Cross developed a fire preparedness program that has two goals:

1.education and

2. door to door canvassing to discuss fire safety, to install fire alarms and to develop an escape plan.   

 

We learned that a working smoke detector is the key to fire safety.  Of 25 fire related death, 24 could have been prevented had there been operational and strategically placed fire alarms in the home. The majority of fires begin in the kitchen and occur between the hours of 11 p.m and 7 a.m.
Fire alarms should be in every bedroom, outside every bedroom, and on every floor.  You should test your fire alarms monthly and replace the batteries at least once per year. It is also a good idea to vacuum your fire alarms every once in a while.  Alarms alert you and escape plans get you out faster.  Set up meeting places for family in the event of a fire.  It's also smart to have a go bag packed with the essentials.  You should keep your go bag under your bed or beside the exit door.