Fire Safety

[Audio] Fire safety is essential for maintaining a safe home and work environment for everyone at Shadowfax, particularly considering the unique needs of individuals supported in disability services. Key Fire Prevention Skills Effective fire safety begins with prevention. Staff are trained to: Identify common fire hazards such as overloaded electrical outlets, improper storage of flammable materials, and unattended cooking. Maintain clear pathways and exits, and practice good housekeeping to minimize fire risks. Use facility heating equipment properly and avoid banned items like space heaters, which significantly increase fire risk. Emergency Response Basics Knowing how to respond in the event of a fire saves lives: Staff are educated on recognizing fire alarms, locating exits, and following the established evacuation plan for each Shadowfax site. Drills and scenario training help ensure everyone knows their role, the location of meeting points, and procedures for assisting individuals with disabilities during evacuation. Immediate reporting of any fire or smoke and activating alarms ensures rapid response and safety for all. Protecting Vulnerable Individuals For people with disabilities, fire safety training includes adapted strategies: Creating accessible evacuation routes and clear communication plans. Practicing support and assistance techniques tailored for those with mobility, sensory, or cognitive challenges. Reviewing use of fire-resistant materials and special warning devices to enhance protection and early detection. Fire safety skills and adherence to safety regulations are vital for protecting ourselves and those we support at Shadowfax, ensuring a safe environment for everyone—preventing fires, responding effectively, and practicing inclusive protection measures..

[Audio] The mechanics of fire are rooted in the "fire triangle": a fire must have fuel, heat, and oxygen to exist. Elements of the Fire Triangle Fuel Fuel is any material that can combust and serves as the source for sustained burning. Common household fuels include wood, paper, plastics, fabrics, and flammable liquids like cleaning solvents or gasoline. These materials are often present in homes and workplaces, making proper storage and disposal critical for fire prevention. Heat Heat raises the temperature of fuel to its ignition point, allowing a fire to start. Sources of heat can be intentional, such as a lighter, match, or stove, or accidental, such as malfunctioning electrical appliances, friction, or lightning strikes. Any situation where heat contacts combustibles in the presence of oxygen may start a fire. Oxygen Oxygen is the reactive agent that sustains combustion and is readily available in the air we breathe (about 21% of our atmosphere). Without oxygen, the chemical chain reactions of fire cannot continue. Removing oxygen, for example by using a fire extinguisher or blanket, will extinguish a fire. Practical Implications By controlling or removing any one side of the fire triangle—fuel, heat, or oxygen—fires can be prevented, suppressed, or extinguished. Fire safety education focuses on minimizing fuel sources, using heat safely, and understanding how to stop the supply of oxygen during emergencies. This foundation supports all workplace and home fire safety practices and empowers everyone to act wisely to prevent fire hazards.

[Audio] To extinguish a fire, removing one side of the fire triangle—fuel, heat, or oxygen—will effectively stop the burning process. Removing Heat Applying water is the most common method for cooling and extinguishing ordinary fires (Class A: wood, paper, cloth) because water absorbs heat, rapidly lowering the temperature below the fuel's ignition point. However, water must never be used on grease (oil) fires or electrical fires, as it can spread burning oil or cause electrical shock. Removing Oxygen When water can't be used, removing oxygen is the next best approach. Smothering fires with a fire blanket, foam extinguisher, or even a metal lid (for a small stovetop fire) deprives the fire of oxygen, leading to its extinguishment. ABC fire extinguishers, common in workplaces and homes, use a dry chemical that blankets the fire and interrupts the oxygen supply, making them suitable for multiple types of fires. Foam extinguishers, specifically, smother flammable liquids, while CO₂ extinguishers displace oxygen around electrical and liquid fires. Removing Fuel Fuel is the hardest element to remove in an active fire, but isolating or moving unburnt items away from flames can help prevent the spread. In some situations (like wildfires or tank fires), burning material is strategically removed to halt a fire's advance. Special Warnings Never apply water to burning grease, as the water will sink, flash to steam, and violently eject burning oil, causing flare-ups and spreading flames. Instead, use a Class K (kitchen), ABC extinguisher, baking soda, or carefully cover the pan with a lid to smother the fire. Understanding how to safely and effectively extinguish different types of fires empowers individuals to act quickly, prevent injuries, and minimize property damage..

[Audio] Electrical fires at home are frequently caused by overloaded outlets, overheating appliances, and damaged power cords. Overloads and Safe Power Strip Use Plugging multiple electrical devices into a single outlet can easily overload the circuit, especially with high-wattage appliances. Overloading causes wires to heat up and may lead to electrical fires. Power strips with built-in circuit breakers provide some protection, but these should only be used with low-wattage devices and never daisy-chained together. Always check the power strip's rating and ensure it matches your devices' needs. Appliance and Cord Inspection Damaged or frayed appliance cords are a serious hazard, as exposed wires can spark and ignite nearby materials. Before use, regularly inspect all power cords and plugs—never operate any device that shows cracks, fraying, or insulation damage. If a cord or appliance feels hot to the touch, disconnect and replace it immediately. Extension Cord Safety Extension cords are only meant for temporary use. Long-term use can lead to overheating, wear, and increased risk of fire. Do not run cords under rugs or furniture, as this prevents heat from escaping and can cause ignition. Extension cords should never be used as a permanent wiring solution or to connect high-energy appliances. Key Reminders for Fire Prevention Use the correct outlets and never force three-prong plugs into two-prong sockets. Replace or professionally repair any outlet or switch that feels warm or flickers. Ensure all cords, extension leads, and appliances are approved and rated for their intended use. These practices significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires in any home or workplace..

[Audio] Space heaters are not allowed at Shadowfax facilities due to significant safety risks they pose, especially in environments serving individuals with disabilities. Fire and Injury Risks Space heaters are responsible for a disproportionate number of heating-related fires. They cause about 32% of such fires in workplaces and homes, often when they come into contact with combustible materials like paper, bedding, or furniture. On average, portable electric heaters are linked to 1,700 fires per year, resulting in 70 deaths and 160 injuries annually in the U.S. Many of these incidents are due to improper use, lack of safety features, or plugging heaters into extension cords, which can quickly overheat and ignite nearby materials. Additional Hazards in Disability Service Settings In facilities like Shadowfax, where individuals may have limited mobility, slower reaction times, or sensory impairments, the danger of hyperthermia (overheating), burns, and inability to act quickly in case of a fire is greatly increased. Electric space heaters also pose a heightened risk of electrical shock, especially in damp or bathroom environments. Organizational Policy Rationale The prohibition of space heaters at Shadowfax is a proactive safety measure. It is designed to prevent fire hazards, reduce risk to vulnerable individuals, and ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. Facility heating systems are managed to maintain comfort and safety for everyone, eliminating the need for personal supplemental heating devices..

[Audio] When changing light bulbs. Never install a light bulb with a higher wattage than the light fixture is labeled for. You may often think about the wattage of the light bulbs you use in your home. In fact, until it's time to replace a bulb, you probably take your light bulbs for granted and forget that they exist. However, using light bulbs of the wrong wattage can cause problems in your home. Here's what you need to know about choosing the right light bulbs for your house. What Happens If You Use the Wrong Lightbulb? All of your light bulb sockets should list a maximum wattage. Replacing light bulbs with ones that have a lower wattage usually is not an issue because the socket is designed to handle more power. However, if you choose a light bulb with a higher wattage than what is listed on the socket, it could lead to numerous problems. What Is Overlamping? Overlamping occurs when a lightbulb gets too hot for the socket it is in. This happens when you install a light bulb with too high of wattage in a socket. The longer you leave the light bulb in place, the hotter it gets. It can cause severe problems, including a fire, if you leave light bulbs in place that there are too powerful for the socket. Overlamping can lead to several problems in your home. If you avoid putting high-wattage light bulbs in low-wattage sockets, you can avoid the following issues: Damage to light fixtures: When light bulbs get too hot, they can cause permanent damage to your light fixtures. If the fixture around the socket starts to melt, the light bulb will no longer fit properly. You will have to replace the entire fixture, and if you continue overlamping, this expense adds up quickly. Overheating: If the heat radiating from your light bulb starts to melt the wiring inside your light fixture, it can quickly lead to an electrical fire. This risk increases the longer you allow overlamping to happen. Another common issue associated with overlamping is a reduction in energy efficiency. If your light bulb is taking too much power from the socket, it will use much more energy and may not last as long. You will likely have to replace light bulbs more frequently if you continue overlamping..

[Audio] Clogged lint traps are a leading cause of dryer fires. Clean the lint filter before or after every load to reduce the risk and keep your home safe. Why Dryer Lint is Dangerous Lint is highly flammable and collects quickly in both the lint filter and exhaust duct, restricting airflow and causing the dryer to overheat. Overheated dryers can ignite lint, leading to fires that cause significant property damage and endanger lives. Statistics and Fire Prevention Each year, clothes dryers are responsible for over 15,000 fires in the U.S., with the vast majority caused by lint accumulation and failure to clean the filter and ductwork regularly. 33% of dryer fires are due to failure to clean lint traps and ducts. Property losses from dryer fires exceed $100 million annually. Proactive Safety Tips Clean the lint filter before or after every load to maintain efficient airflow and reduce fire risk. Schedule yearly professional cleanings of the dryer exhaust vent and duct system. Monitor warning signs: longer drying times, overheated clothes, or a burning smell signal potential blockage. Key Takeaway Regular lint trap cleaning and annual vent maintenance are essential steps for keeping your home safe and reducing energy costs..

[Audio] Smoking is strictly prohibited inside all Shadowfax programs and facilities to minimize fire hazards and protect the safety of everyone present. Staff and individuals who smoke must do so outdoors at the designated smoking areas and staff must never leave an individual unsupervised while smoking, Outdoor Smoking Safety When smoking outdoors, responsible disposal of cigarettes and ashes is crucial. Cigarette butts and ashes should never be discarded on the ground, in landscaping, or in potted plants, as these can ignite dry leaves, mulch, or even organic potting soil—often leading to fast-spreading outdoor fires. Always use deep, sturdy ashtrays placed outside and away from combustible materials. Ensure all smoking materials are fully extinguished by dousing in water or sand before disposal. Never toss cigarettes into trash cans, planters, or on the roadway—a smoldering butt can start fires hours after disposal. Preventable Fire Risks Each year, fires caused by discarded smoking materials result in significant property loss and are among the top causes of fatal residential fires in the U.S. Smokers should never smoke outdoors near oxygen tanks, flammable liquids, or storage areas, as these substances can dramatically increase fire risk. Designating specific outdoor smoking areas with proper, fire-resistant receptacles helps enforce regulations and protect facilities from accidental ignition, supporting the overall safety culture at Shadowfax.

[Audio] Prevention is the best defense against fire, but when a fire does occur, effective warning and suppression systems such as smoke detectors and sprinklers are vital for saving lives and limiting property damage. Role and Maintenance of Smoke Detectors Smoke detectors are designed to provide early alerts, giving occupants time to escape quickly and safely before a fire grows beyond control. However, detectors are only effective if they are regularly cleaned, tested, and maintained according to manufacturer instructions. Battery-powered smoke detectors should have their batteries replaced at least every six months, and immediately when a low-battery warning or "chirp" is heard. Use a regular schedule, such as changing batteries at the start and end of daylight savings time or on the first day of spring and fall, to ensure continuous protection. Test each alarm monthly by pressing the test button, and clean the device with a vacuum or compressed air. Smoke alarms should be replaced completely every ten years, or sooner if malfunctioning. Wired vs. Battery Detectors Some detectors are hardwired to the building's electrical system and generally do not require battery changes, except for a backup battery that should also be replaced regularly. Wired alarms should be periodically tested and replaced every ten years, following manufacturer and safety guidelines. Importance of Fire Sprinklers Fire sprinkler systems, often mandated in commercial buildings and newer residential constructions, can suppress or extinguish fires even before firefighters arrive. Having both smoke detectors and sprinkler systems greatly increases building safety and reduces the risk of injury or death. Program Procedures Always review and follow your Shadowfax program's fire safety procedures. Confirm the type and maintenance needs of your fire warning system with your supervisor, and ensure that fire logs are regularly updated as part of the facility's safety plan. Collectively, these systems and practices provide critical layers of fire protection and are fundamental to maintaining a safe environment for all..

[Audio] If a fire is small and manageable, it may be safely extinguished with a fire extinguisher provided you take essential precautions and use the correct technique. It is critical for you to know where the fire extinguishers are located everywhere you provide support. These should be accessible to everyone. Safety Positioning When attempting to put out a fire, always: Keep a safe distance, far enough that your clothing and hair do not risk catching fire. Maintain an escape route and position yourself between the fire and the nearest exit, ensuring you can quickly retreat if conditions worsen. Never turn your back on the fire—continually face it and be alert to changes. Using PASS To effectively deploy a fire extinguisher, remember the acronym PASS: P: Pull the pin on the extinguisher; this unlocks the mechanism for discharge. A: Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire—not the flames—since the base contains the fuel and extinguishing it halts the fire. S: Squeeze the handle firmly to discharge the extinguishing agent. S: Sweep side to side across the base of the fire until fully extinguished. After the fire appears out, continue to monitor the area, as flare-ups can occur. Always contact emergency services for further assurance, and do not attempt to extinguish large fires—evacuate immediately and wait for professional responders..

[Audio] Types of Fires and Fire Extinguishers There are three main classes of fires you should be familiar with. It's important to know that not every fire extinguisher is suitable for every kind of fire. Using the wrong extinguisher can spread the fire or create safety hazards. Most of the fire extinguishers used at Shadowfax are labeled ABC or universal extinguishers, meaning they are appropriate for all three classes of fires. Always take time to familiarize yourself with the location and type of extinguisher available in your program area so you can respond quickly and correctly in an emergency. Class A Fires – Ordinary Combustibles Description: Fires that involve common materials that burn and produce ash, such as wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. Type of Extinguisher: Pressurized water or ABC (universal) extinguishers. Discharge Duration: Approximately 60 seconds of continuous discharge. Effective Range: Up to 40 feet. Recharge Requirements: Must be recharged after each use. These fires are common in household or office settings. Water-based extinguishers effectively cool and smother the flames by removing heat from the combustion process. Class B Fires – Flammable Liquids and Grease Description: Fires caused by substances that can easily ignite and spread rapidly, such as gasoline, oil, paint, or grease. Type of Extinguisher: ABC (universal) extinguishers, effective for both flammable liquids and grease fires. Discharge Duration: 8 to 10 seconds of discharge time. Effective Range: Between 12 and 20 feet. Never use water on a Class B fire—it can spread the fuel and make the situation worse. ABC extinguishers contain dry chemical agents that help smother flames and prevent re-ignition by cutting off oxygen. Class C Fires – Electrical Equipment Description: Fires involving live electrical circuits, wiring, outlets, or appliances. Type of Extinguisher: Non-conductive BC or universal ABC extinguisher. Discharge Duration: Several seconds, depending on extinguisher size. Effective Range: Only 3 to 8 feet. For safety, never use water on electrical fires. Non-conductive extinguishing agents are required to avoid electrical shock and prevent further damage. Key Safety Reminders Know the extinguisher type and location in every program area. Always aim at the base of the fire when discharging the extinguisher. Keep your back to an exit when fighting a fire—never corner yourself. If the fire is large or spreading quickly, evacuate immediately and call 911.

[Audio] Comprehensive fire emergency planning: Start by reviewing the fire emergency plan for your support setting. The plan should cover escape routes, meeting places, alarm systems, and clearly defined roles for all staff during an emergency. Individual and setting-specific plans: Adapt emergency procedures to the needs of those you support and to the specific features or risks in your location. Include accommodations for mobility, communication, and other support needs. Evacuation drills: Conduct walk-through, announced, and unannounced (surprise) drills regularly—ideally quarterly, and at different times—to make sure everyone is prepared and can evacuate safely and quickly. Use these drills to identify challenges and practice real-life responses. Gather safety resources: Stay informed about fire codes and safety requirements by consulting your State Fire Marshal, local fire department, and your employer. Fire officials can help conduct drills, answer questions, and provide expert feedback on your plans. Escape routes: Identify primary and secondary escape routes for every area. Make sure all exits are accessible, unblocked, and practical for everyone—including those with disabilities. Periodically check that exits, hallways, and stairs are clear of obstructions and that outdoor exits are passable in all seasons. Early warning alert systems: Ensure the facility is equipped with functioning smoke detectors, fire alarms, and alert systems for anyone who is hearing impaired. Check all safety devices regularly. Meeting places: Select safe designated meeting points outdoors. They should be far enough from the building to avoid smoke or fire but close enough for people to reach easily. Practice reaching the meeting place and taking headcounts during drills. Make sure meeting places don't interfere with emergency vehicles. Roles and responsibilities: Assign roles such as fire wardens, route guides, and floor monitors who help direct and assist during evacuations. Ensure each role is clearly understood and that contact information is up to date. Know each person's needs and environment: Assess every support setting—such as where people live, work, and spend time—after gaining a thorough understanding of each person's specific needs. This helps determine how safe the environment is and what modifications may be needed for effective individualized fire safety planning. Customize emergency plans: Direct support professionals must evaluate fire safety and evacuation requirements for each setting and make sure plans are practical for every individual. An escape route should fit the physical and cognitive abilities of each person, as standard building designs may not be suitable for those with disabilities. For example, a path may be unused or unsafe for someone with limited mobility or unfamiliarity. Assisted evacuation skills: Practice evacuation techniques and develop trust ahead of emergencies to keep everyone safe. Address each person's unique needs in their emergency plan; protocols should be developed in collaboration with the support team and rehearsed together. Mobility assistance: Learn and practice different evacuation methods that may be needed in emergencies, such as blanket drag, clothes drag, under-arm wrist drag, and extremities lift carry. These procedures ensure you are equipped to help someone who cannot leave independently. Address evacuation resistance: If a person resists evacuating, find out why and work to make the process less stressful. Only use force if absolutely necessary and according to a pre-established behavioral protocol. Practice and reinforce positive participation during drills to build trust and cooperation. Teaching fire safety: Run regular evacuation drills tailored to individual needs, focusing on building skills and confidence. Identify what each person knows about fire safety, set learning goals, and teach relevant skills through.

[Audio] If you are the staff member who first sees smoke or fire, it is critical to act quickly and confidently to protect yourself, others, and the facility. Steps to Take When You See Fire or Smoke Pull the nearest fire alarm pull station in the building immediately to alert everyone. Notify anyone nearby about the fire so they can begin to evacuate. Call 911 to report the fire yourself, or assign someone else to call immediately to ensure the fire department is on the way. Evacuation Actions Make sure you can safely get to an unblocked exit and guide others away from the immediate danger. Begin evacuating everyone from the building promptly—staff should assist individuals who need help evacuating. Close windows and doors behind you to help contain smoke and fire. Check bathrooms and other rooms to ensure no one is left inside. Turn off lights, TVs, radios, or other electrical devices as you leave to reduce fire risk. At the Tremont Street and Patterson Street locations, ensure fire doors are closed as you evacuate. These doors separate workshop areas from others and help contain the fire. Additional Support Staff members trained in first aid or with medical experience will be assigned to assist anyone needing help during the evacuation. Important Reminders Always remain calm and focused. Ensure your own safety first so you can help others effectively. Do not return to the building until the fire department declares it safe..

[Audio] Fire Emergency Response: RACE Acronym and Survival Techniques Remember the RACE Acronym In the event of a fire, always follow the RACE steps to respond safely and effectively: R – Rescue: Act quickly to rescue yourself and anyone in immediate danger, but only if it is safe to do so. Protect life above all else and do not put yourself at unnecessary risk. A – Alarm: Immediately activate the nearest fire alarm pull station to alert others. If one is not available, call 911 at once to report the fire. • Provide your name, location, and describe the problem. • Stay on the phone until the dispatcher tells you to hang up. • Answer any questions. Follow any instructions from the dispatcher and fire fighters. • Never return to a home or building without an "all clear" signal from fire fighters. C – Contain: Contain the fire by closing doors and windows as you leave. This slows the spread of fire and smoke, increasing safety for yourself and others. E – Extinguish: If the fire is small and you have received proper training, try to extinguish it with the right fire extinguisher. Never attempt this if the fire is large or rapidly spreading. After Evacuating the Building Use only the marked exit routes as indicated on the emergency exit diagrams for your facility or program area. Remain calm and focused throughout the evacuation, as panic can lead to accidents or injuries. Follow all instructions provided by firefighters and emergency responders. Once outside, promptly take attendance or conduct a headcount to ensure everyone is accounted for. Immediately report any missing persons to fire or emergency personnel. As needed, staff will work with Rabbit Transit, families, and residential providers to arrange safe transportation for individuals following the emergency. Understanding Fire: Faster, Hotter, Darker, and More Dangerous Fires move quickly and cause temperatures to rise to dangerous levels, often making escape much more difficult than people expect. A successful escape depends on a rapid and well-practiced response. Review and apply the survival techniques below. Survival Techniques for Direct Support Professionals Get out quickly and stay out: Treat all alarms as real emergencies. Time matters—evacuate immediately and focus solely on getting yourself and those you support to safety. Do not return for possessions. Never re-enter until firefighters say it's safe. Crawl low if you encounter smoke: Smoke and heat rise. At floor level, the air may be around 500°F cooler than at eye level, and the best oxygen is near your feet. If possible, crawl to safety on hands and knees. Check closed doors and use escape routes: Feel closed doors for heat before opening. Open only cool doors and be ready to close them again quickly if conditions worsen. Do not break windows unless there's an immediate plan to escape. Avoid jumping from high windows. Never use elevators during evacuation; always take the stairs. Be prepared if exits are blocked: If a route is blocked, close doors behind you to slow the spread of fire. Use wet towels or cloths to seal cracks around doors. Call 911 to ensure rescuers know your location. Stay near a window to signal for help. Practice these steps regularly and commit them to memory, as they can be essential in an emergency. Fire safety depends on everyone's quick thinking and calm decision-making..

[Audio] You may need to respond during dangerous circumstances as a direct support professional. It is important to be prepared. It is important to evacuate immediately if you experience a large fire. But evacuation is not needed if a person's clothes catch on fire. It is important to put the fire out immediately. The fire should be extinguished with the Stop, Drop, and Roll procedure: • STOP moving. Moving or running feeds air to the flames. It worsens the fire. • DROP to the floor. Standing can cause panic. It can burn a person's face. • ROLL slowly on the floor or ground. Arms and hands should be used to cover the chest and face. • Cool off as soon as possible with water for first and second degree burns. • Call 911 immediately or tell a bystander to call. The National Fire Protection Association says that 33 car fires are reported every hour in the United States. The most important thing to do is remain calm if a vehicle starts smoking, emits a burning smell, or catches fire while you are driving. Then follow these steps: 1. Signal and move immediately to the right shoulder or right lane. 2. Stop the vehicle. Shut off the engine. 3. Get all passengers and yourself out of the vehicle. 4. Get as far away from the vehicle as you can. This should be at least 150 feet. Make sure the area you move to is safe and secure. 5. Call 911 to notify the fire department. 6. Warn onlookers and others to keep away. You can use emergency road flares or reflective triangles to attempt to warn oncoming traffic..

[Audio] If people need to be relocated immediately due to a fire or emergency, they will be transported to designated safe locations as transportation becomes available: Individuals at 386 Patterson Street will be relocated to 805 Prospect Street. Staff and residents should remain calm and cooperate fully with transportation and emergency personnel. Residential Program Staff Responsibilities Any staff member working in a residential program must be familiar with the fire safety procedures and evacuation requirements specific to their location. These requirements ensure that everyone knows how to respond promptly and safely in the event of a fire or similar emergency. Staff must assist individuals in evacuating, help with headcounts, and coordinate with emergency responders and transportation providers to ensure safe relocation..

[Audio] All residential programs must conduct unannounced fire drills once a month. These drills are essential for ensuring everyone's safety and preparedness. Timing: Drills will be held at different times of the day and night to simulate real emergencies and test readiness under various conditions. At least once every six months, a fire drill will be conducted while individuals are asleep, between the hours of 12 midnight and 5:45 am. The exact time may vary, but it is crucial that it occurs when individuals are actually sleeping. Alarm Activation: During each drill, one smoke detector or alarm will be intentionally triggered. Staff will set off the detector or alarm closest to the hypothetical fire location to simulate a real scenario. Evacuation Procedure: Staff must ensure all individuals evacuate through the closest and safest exit within two and a half minutes. Everyone will evacuate to a designated meeting place, which is listed in each program's fire log. The meeting place must be at least 20 feet away from the house to ensure safety. Visibility and Safety: The fire department prefers all individuals to be visible upon their arrival so they can verify everyone is out. Staff will make sure individuals are not in danger of oncoming traffic and that they do not impede the fire department's progress when they arrive. Emergency Procedure When Exit Path Is Blocked If the path to the exit is blocked by fire or smoke, do not attempt to use that route. Move each individual to an open window if possible, and ensure they are in a safe position to be rescued or evacuated. Close the door behind each individual to slow the spread of smoke and fire. Notify the fire department immediately and provide their location and the individual's whereabouts. Firefighters will assist in evacuating everyone from the building using specialized equipment or rescue techniques. For specific evacuation procedures tailored to each program, staff should refer to the fire log maintained for that particular home..

[Audio] Post-Fire Drill Equipment Checks and Maintenance After each monthly fire drill, staff members are responsible for thoroughly checking all safety equipment in the home to ensure it is in proper working order. This includes: Fire Extinguishers: Verify that each extinguisher is fully charged, has no visible damage, and the pressure gauge (if applicable) indicates readiness. Smoke Detectors: Test each smoke detector to ensure it sounds correctly and is free from dust or obstruction. Emergency and Exit Lights: Confirm that all emergency lights and exit signage illumination are functioning properly to guide safe evacuation in low visibility conditions. Safety Devices for Hearing Impaired Individuals: Check any specialized alarms, such as vibrating alert systems or flashing lights, designed for individuals with hearing impairments to make sure they operate correctly. Reporting and Repair Procedures If any piece of safety equipment is found to be defective or malfunctioning, staff must notify promptly: The property manager for residential programs Or the facilities maintenance person in other program settings Notification must occur within 24 hours of the defect being discovered. Repairs or replacements must be completed within 48 hours of notification to maintain compliance and safety standards. Interim Safety Measures If immediate repairs cannot be made, staff will be required to remain awake and on duty overnight or until the repair or replacement of the safety equipment is completed, ensuring continuous monitoring and safety of all individuals in the home..

[Audio] Fire safety is not just the job of a few—it is a vital responsibility shared by every staff member. By consistently following established fire safety procedures, including prevention, awareness, and prompt action during emergencies, we help create a safer environment for everyone. When each person takes fire safety seriously, we reduce the risk of injury, protect the well-being of the individuals we serve, and maintain a secure workplace for staff. Together, our vigilance and preparedness ensure that we are ready to respond effectively to any fire emergency. Committed fire safety practices demonstrate our care, professionalism, and dedication to protecting lives within our community..