Spring in Arizona is a particularly enjoyable time.
Living in an apartment community can be even more fun as you can share in the
common areas and use community barbeques.
In recent weeks, a few neighborhood and
apartment-community fires have been in the news. These accidents remind us to
be vigilant about fire safety.
Many apartment communities offer enhanced safety
features, and some management companies provide trainings about safety features
within your community. Here are a couple of key fire-prevention tips:
Check candles,
fireplaces. Unattended candles cause thousands of fires in homes ever year,
according to the National Fire Protection Association. Blowing them out before
you leave the room is an easy way to prevent fires. If you have a fireplace, be
sure that the fire is safely out and that embers can’t escape through the
grill.
Cool your outdoor
grill. One community recently had a fire start when a resident used his
electric grill, then put it away before it was completely cool. The fire
started in a closet and quickly spread. If you are using a grill, be sure that
the BBQ has completely cooled before storing it.
Know your escape
plan. It’s important to know how to escape in an emergency. You need to
know where the stairs are and where the emergency exits are. Run a quick
practice with your family so everyone knows how to get out and where to meet.
If you have to seal yourself in for safety, you can still protect yourself
until the fire department is able to come and help you. Wet towels placed under
the door to prevent smoke from getting in to a room. If possible, get to a room
with a window; open it (if the fire isn’t outside) to bring in fresh air.