Women & Children's Hospital of Buffalo

Emergency Department
Injury Prevention Info- Fire Safety Facts

Did you know…

• On average in the United States in 2009, someone died in a fire every 175 minutes, and someone was injured every 31 minutes (Karter 2010). 
• About 85% of all U.S. fire deaths in 2009 occurred in homes during the winter months (Karter 2010).
• Approximately 4 out of 10 home fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms (Aherns 2009).
• On February 22, 2010- ‘Amanda’s Law’ took effect.  The law requires carbon monoxide detectors in every 1-2 family property, apartments, and multiple dwellings.
• It is also NYS law that all homes have working smoke detectors installed.

Q & A

Q: How does a smoke alarm work?

A: Smoke alarms are devices that recognize when there is smoke in the air. A loud beeping sound is activated if smoke is detected in your home to warn you of a fire.

Q: How do we know where to put smoke alarms in our homes, so we are safe?

A: You should install and maintain smoke alarms in your home on every floor and near all bedrooms.

Q: Do we need to check our smoke alarms to make sure they are working?

A: YES. Test smoke alarms once a month to make sure they are working properly. This is easy; just use the ‘test’ button on the smoke alarm to make sure it sounds an alarm.

You should change smoke alarm batteries once a year.

Children can help their parents remember to check smoke alarms and change batteries by marking dates on the calendar.

Q: What do we do if the smoke alarm goes off?

A: You and your family should leave the house immediately if a smoke alarm goes off. You need to have an escape plan. Parents and children should create and then practice a family escape plan. Your family should make a plan that has two ways to get out of every room and a meeting place outside of your home.