GIVE A GIFT TO SAVE A LIFE
Looking for a novel, yet practical gift to give for Christmas? The Brunswick Fire Department suggests you consider giving smoke detectors, portable fire extinguishers and portable fire escape ladders to family and friends. Unfortunately, many people will not purchase fire safety items for themselves. What better way to show you care. Give a gift to save a life.
When purchasing smoke detectors, buy the battery operated kind. (They will still work when the power is out.) Buy some extra batteries as well. It only takes a screwdriver and two screws to install most detectors, so include installation as a part of your gift to assure it will be put up immediately. Smoke detectors make a good gift. In fact, several cases have been documented at Christmas time when smoke detectors, still in the box under the tree, sounded the alarm and saved families from home fires.
When purchasing fire extinguishers get an ABC multi-purpose type. That means it can be used on any small fire to put it out quickly. Make sure your recipient reads the label and learns how to use the extinguisher properly. It's not difficult to learn, but there is not time to do so after the fire has started. Fire extinguishers should be kept in homes (kitchen area), cars, boats, campers and trailers.
When purchasing or making escape ladders, make them 15- to 20-feet long and light enough to be used by a child. Too often, people are trapped in second story rooms without a safe way down. There is usually not enough time to begin to tie sheets together. A ready-made ladder is necessary. Keep them coiled under beds. You can purchase metal escape ladders from most hardware and department stores.
When purchasing any of these fire safety items, look for the UL label. Underwriters Laboratories is a testing lab which lists items passing certain safety tests.
Why not do yourself a favor at Christmas. Be your own friend. Buy one or all of these gifts for yourself.