There is no time! In 30 seconds a small fire will double in size. Most fires occur in the home when people are asleep.
Fire is Hot!
Heat is more threatening then flames. Heat from fire can kill. Room temperatures in a fire can be 90 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super hot air will burn your lungs. In three minutes a room can get so hot that everything in it ignites at once. This is called flashover.
Fire is Dark!
Fire isn't always bright, it can be pitch black. Fire starts bright, but in minutes it becomes black smoke and complete darkness. If you wake up to a fire you may be unable to see and become disoriented and unable to find your way around the home you have lived in for years.
Fire is Deadly!
Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire uses up the oxygen you need and produces carbon monoxide a poisonous gas that kills. Breathing even small amounts of these gases can make you drowsy and disoriented. The odorless, colorless fumes can lull you into a deep sleep before the flames reach your door.
Fire Requires the Family to Have A Plan!
In the event of a fire remember time is the biggest enemy and every second counts. Escape first.
Develop a home fire escape plan and designate a meeting place outside.
Make sure everyone in the family knows two ways to escape from every room.
Practice feeling your way out with your eyes closed.
Never stand up in a fire! Always crawl low under the smoke.
Never return to a burning building for any reason, it may cost you your life.
A working smoke detector dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire.
Remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family.
City of Dallas: 187 S.E. Court Street, Dallas, OR 97338, Ph. 503.623.2338, TDD 503.623.7355
