Safety

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Bicycle helmet - proper usage

Definition

Alternative Names

Fire safety; Bicycle safety; Water safety

Information

Accidents are the most common cause of death in children 14 years old and younger. In fact, accidents cause more childhood deaths than diseases, drugs, or violence. Fortunately, many accidents -- for both children and adults -- can be avoided if simple safety measures are taken.

FIRE SAFETY

Install smoke detectors in hallways, sleeping areas, the kitchen, and garage. Test them once a month and change the batteries regularly.
Do not smoke in bed.
Keep matches and other flammable materials out of reach of children.
Never leave a burning candle or fireplace fire unattended.
Establish fire escape routes from every room in your house and teach family members what to do in case of a fire. Have twice-a-year fire drills to practice escaping.
Keep fire extinguishers in handy locations. Have at least one extinguisher on each level of your home.
Know how to use a fire extinguisher. In an emergency, you must be able to act fast.
Teach children about fires. Explain how they are accidentally started and how to prevent them.
Children's sleepwear should be specifically labeled as snug-fitting or flame-resistant. Using other clothing, including loose-fitting garments, increases the risk of severe burns if the item catches fire.
Make sure household wiring is up-to-date.
Store flammable materials away from heat sources, water heaters, and open-flame space heaters.
Supervise children when they are using fireworks. Never assume that a child will read and follow safety instructions.

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HOTEL FIRE SAFETY

After checking into a hotel, always find the exits and fire alarm closest to your room. Point these out to the people you are staying in the room with.
Review the hotel's safety information in your room.
Do not smoke in bed.
If there is a fire outside of your room, always feel the door before opening it. If it is hot, do not open it -- telephone for help.
If you leave your room, take your room key with you so that you can get back into your room if the nearest exit is blocked.
If you are forced to stay in your room, telephone for help, turn off the air-conditioning and heating systems, and open your window slightly for ventilation.
To help keep smoke from entering into your room, soak sheets and towels and stuff them under the door.
Stay close to the floor for the freshest air and hold a wet washcloth over your face.
Do not attempt to run though smoke or flames.
Do not use any elevators during a fire. They are electrical and could shut down, trapping you inside.