The uptick in apartment fires in New York City is alarming. The more kids understand about the dangers of fire and how to prevent one, the safer everyone will be. Share these fire prevention tips with your loved ones and children to prevent a devastating fire. If you or someone you know has been a victim of an apartment fire and suffered injuries, contact an experienced Fire injury Lawyer NYC as soon as possible.
Fire safety starts with prevention.
The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that 300 people are killed and $280 million in property is destroyed each year as the result of children playing with fire. To prevent another tragedy:
- Keep matches and lighters away from children’s reach. Any lighters that are easily accessible to kids should have a child safety feature.
- Never put candles in an area that could easily be knocked over by kids or pets. If you have kids, consider investing in flameless candles instead.
- Place child proof covers on stove buttons and in electrical sockets.
- Ensure your smoke alarms are in good working condition and have fresh batteries. They should be inspected at least once per year.
Teach your kids the basics of fire safety.
Your children should know what a fire alarm sounds like. If and when the alarm sounds, discuss a plan with your children for what to do next. Create a fire escape plan for your family members and pets that includes how to escape the apartment from each room, where to flee to, a safe place to meet outside of the apartment, how to stay low to the ground, and how to dial 9-1-1.
It’s important to practice this fire escape plan at least twice per year, preferably once at night and once during the day. It’s easy to panic or become disoriented in a fire, so the more practice and familiarity you and your children have, the better are the odds for survival.
Remind your kids of the golden rule of fire survival: get out and stay out. Regardless of the circumstances, only firefighters should enter a burning building.
Finally, teach children to stop, drop and roll should their clothing catch fire.
Preparedness saves lives.
With so many buildings so close together in New York City, teaching fire safety to children is critical. The more they understand the risks and know how to avoid starting fires themselves, the safer everyone will be.
Contacting a Fire Injury Lawyer
Fires have the potential to cause devastating and life-threatening injuries within seconds. If you or someone you know has suffered a fire injury, let us help you hold those responsible accountable for your trauma and injuries, and get you the compensation you deserve. Contact our NYC Fire Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation or call 212-779-7070.
