Safety Tips from the Office of Emergency Communications

What should I do in case of a fire?

Get Out Safely

Test doors before opening them. If they are warm, use an alternate escape route. Crawl on your hands and knees low under smoke. Keep your head 12 to 24 iches above the floor. If your clothing catches on fire, remember STOP, DROP and ROLL.

Get Out and Stay Out

Never go back inside a burning building. Do not try to rescue pets or possessions.

Get Help

Call 9-1-1 from a different location after you have escaped.

Remember Your Escape Plan

Go to the designated meeting place and wait for the fire department. Count heads and be prepared to advise firefighters if anyone is trapped inside.

Remember: Fire survival begins long before a fire ever starts. Be sure you have smoke detectors installed with fresh batteries. You also need an escape plan that has been practiced and you must react immediately at the first sign of a fire.

What should I do in case of a natural gas leak?

• Get Out
• Get Help
• Contact 9-1-1 or your local fire department if you suspect that you have a natural gas leak in or near your home.
• Stay Out
• Do not re-enter the premises until you are told that it is safe to do so.

What are the dangers of carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless deadly gas created by home appliances, furnances, ranges, dryers, heaters and other items that burn fuel. Symptoms of CO poisioning include headache, fatigue, nausea, dizzy spells, confusion and irritability. Increased exposure can lead to vomiting, loss of consciousness, brain damage and death. In case of a CO alarm or suspicion of CO poisioning . . .

• • Get Out
  • Do not open windows or doors. Leave them closed so that an accurate reading can be obtained.
  • Get Help
  • Contact 9-1-1 or your local fire department.
  • Stay Out
  • Do not re-enter the premises until you are told that it is safe to do so.