SMOKE DETECTORS – DON’T STAY HOME WITHOUT ONE!

	Most fatal home fires occur at night, while people are sleeping.
	A working smoke detector can double your chances of surviving a fire.
	Battery operated detectors can cost less than $10.
	Where else can you get such valuable protection for so little money?
	CHANGE THE BATTERY on your smoke detector at least ONCE A YEAR. The detector will also let out a periodic “chirping” sound when it needs a new battery.
	Smoke detectors are NOT recommended for kitchens, bathrooms or garages where fumes, steam or exhaust could set off false alarms.
	INSTALL ONE DETECTOR OUTSIDE EACH SLEEPING AREA AND ON EVERY LEVEL OF YOUR HOME.
	If you have a monitored fire detection system, follow the monitoring company’s recommendations for testing the system on a regular basis.
	Families living within the Parker city limits that cannot afford a smoke detector can call the Parker Fire Department at (972) 422-2410 to request a free smoke detector.

HAVE AN ESCAPE PLAN FOR YOUR FAMILY

	Drawing an escape plan can be a fun family activity that may save the life of a loved one.
	Sit down with your family and discuss how each member will exit the home in case of a fire.
	Designate a meeting place outside of the house, such as a tree or a light pole.
	Once you exit the residence, DO NOT GO BACK INSIDE!  Call 9-1-1 from a neighbor’s house.
	Most importantly, PRACTICE YOUR ESCAPE PLAN. By doing so, you may discover flaws in your plan or find a better way to escape.

BURGLAR BARS MAY TRAP YOUR FAMILY DURING A FIRE

	During a fire, you and your family may become trapped if you are not able to open the burglar bars. The bars will also make it difficult for Firefighters to make entry.
	If your burglar bars are not equipped with a safety latch that allows you to open the bars from the inside and WITHOUT A KEY, consider replacing them.
	Remember, your life is worth more than the cost of replacing the bars.

The time to prepare for a fire is before one occurs.  The majority of fires occur in residential homes just like yours.

DON’T ASSUME THAT IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO YOU! Protect your family by taking the necessary precautions.