Continued:

We know that it is also very important for everyone to make sure they can get reimbursed for their personal possessions from their homeowners or renters insurance company as quickly and easily as possible. Think about it; you can accurately list from memory everything in your house ~ right? Most people cannot, and that is why it’s important to have a list, and, if possible, receipts and purchase information.  Winter is an excellent time to complete a home inventory, as most individuals are more likely to spend more time indoors

REMEMBER!  In the event of a fire, every second counts.  Escape first.  Install and maintain smoke alarms (detectors).  A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a fire.  Develop a home fire escape plan and designate a meeting place outside.  Be certain that everyone in the home knows two ways out of every room in the home.  Practice the escape plan in the dark, feeling your way out.  Never stand up in a fire; always crawl low under the smoke where the air is cleaner and cooler.  Never return to the building for any reason once you have left – it may cost you your life.  Practice your home fire escape plan regularly with everyone in the home. 

Fire safety is something that everyone needs to be aware of 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  Do not wait until it is too late, practice fire safety every day!  If you have any questions or comments about this article, or any other fire safety subject, please feel free to call the Fire Company at 215-646-2555 or stop into either fire station any Monday night.  The Fire Prevention Committee is available to present programs upon request. Visit the Fort Washington Fire Company on the Internet at www.fortwashingtonfc.org.