FIRE SAFETY

Use Visuals The National Fire Protection Association recommends creating a story book to help individuals with special needs understand what fire is and why it can be dangerous. Utilizing photos of their environment and family/caregivers, the story book could be a great tool to teach safety rules (related to candles, the stove/oven, and the fireplace), escape plans, and how to respond to firefighters. PurchaseTalkingFireAlarms Studies have shown that fewer than half of children ages 6-15 wake up to a traditional alarm, and are more likely to wake to the sound of a familiar voice such as their parent.

The Kid smart Vocal Smoke Detector can be used in addition to a traditional smoke and fire alarm. Teach and Practice “Get Low and Go” Show pictures of what that means and how that behavior can help avoid breathing deadly smoke while exiting a burning structure. Include an agreed upon meeting place outside the home. Create and use visual aids above doors to high light the escape route.

Get to know your first responders It could be frightening to see firefighters in full gear entering yours moke-filled home! Visit your local fire department to learn about fire extinguishers, see fire fighters in full gear, and experience hearing sirens and touching fire trucks. This would also be a good time to share an emergency profile sheet, exchange information, and answer any questions specific to your loved one’s needs. Use Other Alarms If your loved one may not be able to speak or call out for help, keep whistles or bells around the house (inside and outside the home). Teach and practice where the whistles or bells are located and how to use them.

Fire Safety Tips

https://paautism.org/resource/fire-safety-social-story/