What should I do if I smell smoke in my home?
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    What should I do if I smell smoke in my home?
    Updated:22/07/2024
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    SnowGuardian
    Updated:19/08/2024

    If you smell smoke in your home, it’s crucial to act quickly and as safely as possible.

    Immediate Actions to Take
    • Stay Calm: Do not panic; this is crucial for making rational decisions.
    • Assess the Situation: Try to identify the source of the smoke.
    • Evacuate: If the smell persists or if there’s visible smoke, evacuate everyone from the house immediately.
    • Do Not Use Elevators: Always take the stairs to exit the building.
    • Call Emergency Services: Once safe, call the fire department to report the situation.
    • Do Not Go Back Inside: Wait for professional verification that it’s safe.
    Assessment Guidelines
    Indicator Action Needed
    Smoky Smell Investigate source; evacuate if necessary.
    Visible Flames Evacuate immediately and call 911.
    No Flames, Only Smoke Evacuate as smoke inhalation can be harmful.
    Common Causes of Smoke Smell
    • Cooking Incidents
    • Electrical Issues
    • Cigarette or Cigar Smoke
    • Household Fires
    • Heating Equipment Malfunction
    Post-Evacuation Procedures
    1. Stay at a safe distance from the building.
    2. Do not attempt to re-enter the building until given permission by fire authority.
    3. If there are pets, inform firefighters about their locations.
    Fire Safety Statistics
    Year Residential Fires (%) Causes (% of Total)
    2020 76% Cooking 49%, Heating 17%, Electrical 16%
    2021 78% Cooking 52%, Heating 15%, Electrical 13%
    2022 80% Cooking 50%, Heating 13%, Electrical 15%
    Smoke Smell Brainstorming Mind Map
    • Source of Smoke
      • Cooking
      • Electrical
      • Cigarette
    • Immediate Actions
      • Evacuate
      • Call Authorities
      • Assess
    • Post-Evacuation
      • Safe Distance
      • Wait for Clearance
    Prevention Tips
    1. Install smoke detectors and check them monthly.
    2. Keep an eye on cooking activities.
    3. Avoid smoking indoors.
    4. Regularly check and maintain electrical systems.
    Resources
    • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
    • Local Fire Department
    • Emergency Management Office
    Upvote:687