Building Fires Menu

Before a Fire
During a Fire
After a Fire
A fire can engulf a structure in a matter of minutes. Understanding the basic characteristics of fire and learning the proper safety practices can be the key to surviving a house or building fire.
Install smoke detectors.
Check them once a month and change the batteries at least twice a year.
Make sure all family members know what to do in a fire.
Develop and practice an escape plan.
  • Draw a floor plan with at least two ways of escaping every room. Choose a safe meeting place outside the house.
  • Practice alerting other household members. It is a good idea to keep a bell and a flashlight in each bedroom for this purpose.
  • Practice evacuating the building blindfolded. In a real fire situation, the amount of smoke generated by a fire will most likely make it impossible to see.
  • Practice staying low to the ground when escaping.
  • Feel all doors before opening them. If the door is hot, get out another way.
  • Learn to stop, drop to the ground, and roll if clothes catch fire.
  • Post emergency numbers near telephones.
    Peabody Fire Department Emergency Number 978-531-2244 or dial 9-1-1
    However, be aware that if a fire threatens your home, you should not place the call to your emergency services from inside the home. It is better to get out first and place the call from somewhere else.
  • Consider purchasing a collapsible ladder at a hardware store and practice using it, if you live in a multi-story building.
  • Install A-B-C type fire extinguishers in the home and teach family members how to use them.
  • Do not store combustible materials in closed areas or near a heat source.

    COOKING

  • Keep the stove area clean and clear of combustibles such as bags, boxes, and other appliances. If a fire starts, put a lid over the burning pan or use a fire extinguisher. Be careful, moving the pan can cause the fire to spread.
  • Never pour water on grease fires.

    WIRING

  • Check electrical wiring.
  • Replace wiring if frayed or cracked.
  • Make sure wiring is not under rugs, over nails, or in high traffic areas. Do not overload outlets or extension cords.
  • Outlets should have cover plates and no exposed wiring.
  • Only purchase appliances and electrical devices that have a label indicating that they have been inspected by a testing laboratory such as Underwriter's Laboratories (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM).
For additional advice and you live in Peabody, please contact the Peabody Fire Prevention Bureau at 531-2200 or your local fire department if you live elsewhere.
Helping make our community a better, safer place to live!
Dial 9-1-1 in case of an Emergency!