Fire Safety

In the U.S., there are approximately 10,000 fire-related deaths per year. While the loss of life by fire ranks third among the causes of accidental death, smoke, and gas are usually the actual killers. A smoldering waste basket or frayed electrical cord can place you at risk long before actual flames appear. You can lessen your risk by adhering to the following guidelines:

Eliminate Fire Potential

  • Be a careful housekeeper. Keep stoves, frying pans, vents, etc. free of grease. Do not let flammable materials accumulate, and do not block means of egress.
  • When you first enter your living unit, plan how you would escape from each room in the event of fire. By law, there should be two means of egress from each living unit.
  • Make sure you have smoke detectors, which are required by law, and must be supplied by your landlord. If your landlord fails to supply them, purchase smoke detectors yourself. If they are battery operated, change their batteries twice a year, when daylight savings time changes, and test them once a month.
  • Make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors, which are also required under the new RI fire code.
  • Check electrical appliances for frayed wiring, etc.
  • Learn the locations of fire alarms and fire extinguishers, and check the expiration dates on your fire extinguishers to see that they are up to date and have been tested to be in good working order.

On Discovering a Fire

  • Sound the alarm to alert other residents
  • Call the Fire Department
  • Leave the building promptly by the nearest exit
  • Do not attempt to fight the fire

On Hearing a Fire Alarm Sound

  • Feel the door; if it is cool to the touch, open it slowly.
  • If the corridor or hallway is clear of smoke and heat, exit the building immediately.
  • If the corridor or hallway is blocked by heat or smoke, stay in a room with the door tightly closed.
  • Remain at a window until help arrives.

If you feel that your living area is not reasonably safe from fire, advise your landlord, the Fire Department, and the Providence Department of Inspection and Standards. It is your life; protect it.