While living in an apartment can be great fun, it can also be dangerous if the right precautions have not been taken. One of those precautions includes being prepared for disasters like an apartment fire. This is not something anyone wants to experience, but if you’re not prepared for one it can mean the difference between safety and disaster.
Your smoke detectors are your first defense against a fire. Make sure the batteries in them are fresh and that they are working properly.
Know the location of fire extinguishers in your complex. Each complex is required to have fire extinguishers within the buildings. The must be located a specific amount of distance apart, the actual distance will vary with location.
Don’t park in front of fire hydrants, no matter how crowded the parking lot is or how tempting it might be. Blocking these creates a huge problem if there is a fire.
Know your escape plan and walk through it every so often. Knowing the escape plan will help you, your family, friends and neighbors get out of the apartment in a safe time.
Know your neighbors. This will help you make friends or get to know the elderly in your building. In the case of a fire, these folks will need special consideration and you may be the person who can help them get out.
Put out smoking materials like pipes and cigarettes properly. Not smoking in bed is one of the best ways to prevent a fire from starting in the first place.